My home is in a rural community in Washington State nestled at the base of the Cascade foothills. I spend my time painting in my cozy studio with the occasional plein air escapade.

At the age of 10 I had my first oil painting experience through private lessons and followed that enthusiasm through high school. I changed gears for a while when I married my husband and raised my three boys. But the boys grew up and I was reunited to the rich, buttery feel of oils in 2005.

Since then my art has taken a few twists and turns as I developed my personal style and voice. I've explored vivid color and classic earth tones, atmosphere, depth, noise and quiet. I've also expanded from still life to explore figure, portraits and landscapes but most importantly, the value of a strong concept in a composition through the use of light and shadow.

A familiar thread started to run through each finished piece whether still life, landscape, portrait or figure. My artistic voice migrated toward chiaroscuro - the use of bold contrasts between light and dark as a concept for a composition. Paintings that are atmospheric with a focus on light and shadow expresses the mood, mystery and quietness I try to achieve.

I paint nearly every day but from time to time I get an itch for a change of scenery. When that happens my husband and I like to escape to the Southwest for a dose of sunshine and a quick refresh. But it's always good to get back home and squeeze out a fresh blob of paint! :)