This work represents a return to art with fresh eyes after a break of many years.

 

I started out studying fashion design at Ryerson in Toronto. During those studies, I became inspired by Art History 101 and changed my direction, graduating with a degree majoring in Art History from the University of Victoria. I loved the paintings most of all although I never thought I’d hold a brush myself. I worked in galleries instead.

I was purchasing a wooden rooster, a piece of folk art, when the artist told me she could teach me how to paint my own pieces. I signed up and literally learned the strokes. It taught me brush techniques and observation skills that I still use today. It was a cottage industry for me for a while and pieces of my work found their way into homes around the world.

Seeking new challenges, I studied drawing and oil painting at Kwantlen College and became a Sunday afternoon painter for a number of years while I pursued my career as the owner of Luxe Home Interiors (formerly Norwalk-The Furniture Idea) in Victoria, BC.  The store specializes in custom furniture and interior design. Since selling the business in 2010, I have been able to return to painting. I am grateful to my teacher and mentor Catherine Moffat, who helped me refine my skills and to Mark Heine for a fun and informative workshop at the Coast Collective.

A friend said to me, “paint what you love”. So, I do. I love to paint people at work and at play. I am also obsessed with the movement and reflections of water. I love working on commissions for people who have an experience that they wish to capture in a new way.

The interior designer in me believes that a work of art needs to both enhance and offer excitement to the space it inhabits.

I hope you enjoy my work and I heartily welcome your feedback.