I first picked up a paintbrush a few years ago, after age 50. It was during a difficult time in my life when Sioux Falls artist Brad Kringen gave me some brushes and canvases and invited me to his downtown studio to "try my hand" at painting. He gave me no instructions, but let me find and develop my own style.

 

Growing up in Montana, I had early-in-life exposure to western artist Charles M. Russell. I also gained an admiration for the work of art professor Walter Hook and of Monte Dolack. While in college, I had the privilege of knowing Cliff Potts, who used his fingertips and a "golden arm" apparatus attached to his wheelchair to paint and draw remarkable pieces of art. 

 

After coming to Sioux Falls in the mid '90's, I got to help Brad Kringen in creating his artwork. This gave me the opportunity to watch him grow and develop as an artist over these many years. My own style of painting is a mixture of abstract expressionism, impressionism and occasionally cartoons. I work in acrylics and mixed media. My favorite subject matter includes flowers, birds, nature and outer space. I seek to incorporate color, texture and movement into all my paintings.

 

"Ebb Tide II" is meant to be a peaceful painting. It is a momentary break from the chaos and pressure that made up much of 2020. 

 

"Joie de Vivre" is French for Joy of Life. It is a whimsical piece that challenges the viewer to aggressively pursue happiness and joy during these difficult times, no matter how challenging that may be.