My paintings are a combination of realism, pattern, trompe l'oeil, and whimsy. I paint female figures, at times mysterious, humorous, or serene, using intense or subtle colors, textures, and gold-leaf patterns in the costumes. There is an iconic aspect to some of the women, however it is softened by their expressions. It is exciting to see a character come to life, through a combination of observation and imagination. Though most of the paintings are carefully planned, I like to allow for spontaneity, and the intangible: an element of surprise.My technique is traditional, beginning with an underpainting, and building form and intensity of color gradually, yet always with the potential of adding an unexpected twist.The elaborate beadwork, hairstyles, and ornaments are fun elements which help to create movement, richness, and give a sense of mystery to the paintings. Symmetry, proportion, pattern, and geometry are some of the underlying elements of my new paintings.Gold has a spiritual significance for me. The gleam and warmth which emanates from gold adds an amber glow and a three dimensional effect to the paintings. The challenge in using gold or metal leaf is to integrate the gold into an overall scheme, rather than having it stand out as a foreign element. Gold also changes color and fluctuates under different lighting conditions, and takes on some of the color of its surroundings.Education:Bachelor of Fine Arts, Concordia University, Montreal, QC. 1982Selected Exhibitions2016 Inspirations Gallery, Lakeport, California2015 Westmount Gallery, Toronto2015 Galerie Vanasse, St. Lambert , Quebec2015 The Avenue Gallery, Victoria, BC. November exhibition2015 The Avenue Gallery, Victoria, BC “A Little Something in May” miniature exhibition2014 Oil Painters of America Spring Showcase2014 The Avenue Gallery, Victoria, BC. “All That Glitters” miniature exhibition2014 Robert Lange Studios, Charleston, South Carolina, The 9th Annual Realism Show,2014 The Malton Gallery, Cincinnati, Ohio2013 International Guild of Realism, Tempe Center For The Arts, Tempe Arizona2013 Women Painting Women, RJD Gallery, Sag Harbor, New York,2012-2011 Inspirations Gallery, Lakeport, California,2009 McCord Museum, Montreal, "Art and the Home" Mobilia Gallery, Pointe Claire, Quebec.2007 Galerie de la Ville, Dollard des Ormeaux, Quebec2007 "Art and the Home" Mobilia Gallery, Pointe Claire, Quebec2006 Plattsburgh State Art Museum, Suny, Plattsburgh, NY.2005 Stewart Hall, Pointe Claire, QC2004 Plattsburgh State Art Museum,Suny, Plattsburgh, NY2003 McCord Museum, group show2002 Toronto Convention Center solo exhibit2001 Galerie de la Ville, Dollard des Ormeaux, Quebec, solo show, "Creatures of Light"1999-1998 Galerie Schorer, Montreal, group shows gallery artistsInterviews, Features, PublicationsArt Renewal International Salon finalist (catalogue photo and online showcase 2014-15)Oil Painters of America Honorable mention 2014Art Renewal International Salon finalist (catalogue photo and online showcase 2013-14)Carrie Turner interview: FASO (Fine Art Studio Online) featured artist August 2013Southwest Art magazine November 2013The Artist’s Magazine Annual Art Competition finalist 2013Musetouch Magazine online 2013Contemporary Painters, Schiffer Publishing, 2012