I was raised in Eastern Oregon where I began my interest in
watercolor painting, hoping to capture the outdoor scenery of the Wallowa Mountains. I worked at a large art supply & framing store
throughout college which led to my experimentation with many different creative tools along with detailed discussion about them with artists. Meanwhile I received a Bachelor’s in both Studio Art and
Graphic Communications from Eastern Washington University and worked as a
freelance illustrator summers for different companies and agencies. About this time
personal computers were starting to appear and I went from CAD systems and architecture to a more creative or expressive use of computers for art. After receiving a Master’s Degree in interdisciplinary communications,
I went to work for Microsoft where I designed packaging, logos and various
user interface elements. After 20 years there, I left Microsoft and moved to
Redmond, Oregon to spend more time doing my own art vs. managing other artists.
Although I still work part time as a brand consultant, I am now able to spend more creative time in my home studio experimenting with art tools and techniques, both new and old. While watercolor or ink is my preferred medium, I also enjoy working in colored pencil and acrylic. My style reflects my love of the discipline, tools, colors, and their interactions
whether impressionistic or realistic. My subject matter includes detailed
depictions of landscapes, natural elements, and animal portraits.