My inspiration for painting my “Spirit Animal” series- comes from observing & sometimes interacting with the animals in my life. For example, this spring I was lucky enough to feed, from my hand, the “king” of a flock of flamingos; last year one highlight was having a Giant Darner Dragonfly land on my hand & being able to look each other in the eye(s). Connection!! I am in love with the thrill of hearing a huge bull elk “bugle” as he challenges the other males while protecting his “harem”; admiring the rapid helicopter-like flight of a tiny jewel toned hummingbird as she zooms from flower to flower sipping nectar; witnessing the little pikas that live around 8,000 feet and above elevation, in the mountains, collect the “hay” in their mouths to store for food to eat in the upcoming very cold & windy winter etc. Spirit Animals are traditionally chosen by a deep connection between the person & the animal through significant real-life encounters, recurring dreams, or visions. The Spirit Animal acts as a guide, protector or symbol. Who is your Spirit Animal(s)?

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Clay- where have you been all of my life?! This year I have discovered the tactile & therapeutic joy of literally creating with dirt! My “Wise Women Garden Pot Head Sculpture” series complete with smiles & lots of laugh lines grew from combining two loves that are happening in my life right now: growing older, laughing with my friends AND growing flowers. My love of animals & nature has also spilled over into clay with creating animal, flower, Mother Earth themed Garden totems & pieces I am calling Biophilic Treasure Troves. Biophilic Art uses natural elements (clay), organic forms & textures. My Treasure Trove’s are made especially for you to put your treasures in: feathers, heart shaped rocks, sea shells etc. It is so interesting to create three-dimensional forms that the viewer can interact with- touch, hold, plant flowers in!

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In the winter I love to slow stitch & embroider journal covers using textiles I have collected from around the world. Journaling improves physical and mental health by reducing stress, strengthening immune cells, lowering blood pressure, & helping process emotions. It’s also fun to paint, draw or collage in your journal!

My goal as an artist is to evolve as an artist and a human being through creating. I do love bright colors & creating an emphasis in my work on the joy & the beauty of Mother Nature. 

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I’d love to see YOU on the Studio Tour!! I will have my paintings & prints  of the paintings, along with tea towels with the animals printed on them AND a bunch of clay pieces AND my Journal Covers that include a journal, plus a few mosaic pieces. You can see my beautiful garden & folk art collection. I also have a great photo op for you with my BIG painted angel wings!  Please join me & my guest artist this year!

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