From the time I was young have been around people who work with their hands. My paternal grandfather was a carpenter who put his expertise into finish work. My father, a die maker, was also fond of carpentry. My maternal grandfather was a tap dancer, choreographer and comedic performer. I was surrounded by musicians. I am sure that their collective creativity influenced the work I would later begin.

I am currently working on two separate series of paintings, the "Cal Vineyard/ Orchard' Series and "Lift". The first serves as a celebration of California's agricultural heritage. The second series, "Lift" represents a freedom flight; a breaking free of that which hinders and keeps us from being who God designed us to be.

When not painting on location, I work out of a rented studio at the Bothwell Arts Center. The Bothwell has been dubbed an incubator for the arts. It is an affiliate of the Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center. I enjoy painting while various forms of creativity are being expressed in other areas of the center. These can include rehearsals for theatre and opera productions, violin lessons and dance.

Awards (Not all are listed. Recent and top awards are included.):

2010 ~ Alamo Danville Spring Show, honorable mention, Cal Orchards #5, judge, Carolyn Lord

2009 ~ Silver, 2nd place for "Refresh", Alameda County Fair

2008 ~ 1st Place oil, ADAS (Alamo Danville Artists Society) for "Crows with Red Vines", judge, Joe Cleary

2007 ~ Livermore Art Association Spring Show, 1st Place oil, for "Barbara's Garden", judge, Suzanne Darcy

2002 ~ Pleasanton Civic Arts Commission, Award for Artistic Excellence...."Three Workers" depicts, in charming style, the viticultural heritage that is such an important part of our valley....The work also represents an artist's connection and love for the environment and community."

City of Pleasanton

Quick Facts:

graduated, Southeastern Massachusetts University, 1980, BFA, emphasis, illustration

1981, Massachusetts, worked as an advertising illustrator for Steiger's In-House advertising dept.

1981-1988, long Beach, CA, Worked as a freelance hardline illustrator, largest account was Bullock's