I'll try to shed some light on who I am, what I do, and why I do it. (As if I knew)
I was born in Northern California, and grew up in Southern Oregon. I now live in the small town of Princeton in Western Kentucky. I've lived in many places...from Hawaii to Florida, and several in between. At each place, I took on a new persona and tried a new artistic career. I've worked as a visual merchandiser (window displays), fabric store peon, an automotive painter, art instructor, graphic design manager, picture framer, and general art store know-it-all.
Currently, I am focusing on my fine art paintings, in which I use the Cherokee language. I love using the sylabary in my paintings and jewelry. When I use the Cherokee words in my art, I remember them. It has become a learning tool for me. Hopefully, it will inspire someone else to learn more about the language and the people. I also paint murals and decorative finishes, and make jewelry. I've never been happier. I feel all of my jobs and adventures in life have brought me full circle to live here. I'm living my dream!
A large part of my artistic training has been the life I've lived and the career choices I've made. However, I did graduate from commercial art school many, many years ago. I believe that contributes to my clean, uncluttered approach to design.
In 2008, my dogs and I became members of Pawsibilities Unleashed Pet Therapy of Western Kentucky. I take Mr. Magoo and Mona Lisa with me to local facilities to spread puppy love and joy to everyone.
Music:
I listen to a very, very wide range of music, but right now, if I HAD TO list my top 10, I would have to say: ZZ Top, Paul Thorn, ACDC, Robert Randolph, Stevie Ray Vaughan, The Black Keys, RL Burnside, Joan Osbourne, Dwight Yoakam, Hayseed Dixie...I could go on and on. There is so much great music out there. Country, blues, rock, funk, new age, punk, etc. It's all good.
