StatementI grew up in Fremont, Nebraska, graduated from Fremont High, and received my B.A and M.F.A. from the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. I spend my days in the studio at our home east of Lincoln and exhibit my work throughout Nebraska. My husband, Art, and I have two children and five grandchildren, all of whom live in Lincoln.Painting for me is a contemplative effort.I paint pictures that reference elements from nature, or other objects that interest me. I set up those items in my studio and work directly from them. I am fascinated by the translation from eye, or brain, to hand resulting in an image on canvas. The deep concentration that happens in the process of creating a painting is meditative and very satisfying.The country setting where I live and work provides a serene atmosphere and an endless supply of subject matter. Some of my favorite objects to paint are flowers from my gardens and from the roadsides, as well as bird nests blown from the trees. I often pair them with glass bottles that I have collected over the years. Regardless of my choice of objects, my main concern is resolving the composition using all I have learned about the elements and principles of design. Responding to my surroundings and applying my knowledge are key when I make art.