Some of my earliest childhood art memories are the usual childhood coloring books, clay, and pressed flowers, followed by many enjoyable “paint by number” kits.  Early on I also had a small camera that I loved and used frequently.

Through high school and college I enjoyed classes in drawing, oil painting, house design, and art history, where I developed my love of Michelangelo’s work.  Biology and geology classes were also favorites, not only for the subjects, but because class notes could be mostly sketches!

Over the years I’ve taken many summer art and photography classes.  Ken O’Connell’s  “Spirit of the Rough Sketch” class at the Sitka Center was just the inspiration I needed to make art a more frequent part of life instead of just a summer pastime.  I loved the idea of quick, simple sketches that could be done anywhere, anytime.  In 2006 and 2008 he led classes in Italy, and I jumped at the chance to go.  What a wonderful experience!  He brought art history to life and generously shared his enthusiasm for sketching and painting.

Now the sketch books go with me anytime I travel.  I enjoy alternating between pencil, colored pencil, pen & ink, watercolor, and watercolor pencils.  Of course the camera is a constant companion as well.  Both sketches & photos bring back happy memories from my trips, and I often use the photos to complete the art work when I’m back home.

Though I don’t live in Eugene, I’m honored to be a member of the Top Drawers.  Our common interest in art and our experiences together in Italy have forged a valuable friendship.

One of my favorite art quotes is from Picasso:   “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.”