Artist Statement

All I ever wanted to be was an artist. Of course, life's not that simple. So, before launching my career in 1999, I slung whiskey, taught wild and woolly adolescents and even did a stint in advertising. My BA in journalism is rarely put to good use, but I still like spinning a yarn and reading the New York Times.

My work translates everyday life into whimsical and lively images. I love folk art, Outsider Art, Lowbrow and illustration. I draw inspiration from friends, family and folk tales. My images celebrate life’s small pleasures – be it working in the garden, riding a bike or hanging out with good friends.

I work in oil pastels and mixed media. My oil pastels are drawn onto Arches Black Cover paper. I do an under drawing with prismacolor pencils, finishing it with Sennelier and Holbein oil pastels. My mixed media work includes old photos, books, drawings, paintings, etc. I love making them. Working very spontaneously, it's fun to see what emerges from a grain of an idea.  

My work hangs throughout the world - in Europe, South America, Africa, the United States, Asia and now Australia and New Zealand.  It can be seen in several children’s hospitals including Hermann Memorial in Houston, Texas and the Dallas Children’s Hospital. It is also part of the Fort Worth Library collection.
 
In January 2008 I moved with my husband and two sons to Nelson, NZ. In September 2008, I opened Mockingbird Studio. It's been a pleasure to meet both locals and people from all over the world.  I miss my beloved Houston, TX, but am having a blast in New Zealand.