For as long as I can remember, I have been fascinated with art- all of its history and all of its making. When I was a child, exciting were the trips to the Art Institute of Chicago! I went on to study at the American Academy of Art in Chicago. In watercolor class, our teacher would hold painting demonstrations, and the beauty of the pigments flowing into each other worked magic for me. Watercolor really is my first love. Since I am not able to go very long without a brush in my hand, the simplicity of the watercolor set up lends itself to painting anywhere. An important aspect of my practice is keeping a sketchbook, many types of sketchbooks. For years, I have documented my summers this way. I am grateful that this joyful practice has contributed to making me a better painter. Over the years, I have added many other media to my practice: acrylic, oil, cut paper, and collage.But no matter the medium, my first and foremost concern is strength in composition. I strive to make my statements simple and direct, celebrating and honoring what's beautiful or significant in the natural world.Its essence is in all of us.