In 2004, after three decades of what had been a  rewarding career  teaching high school biology, marine science and environmental science, I decided it was time refocus my love and knowledge of nature and move from the classroom to the easel. Although I was a science teacher, I had been keenly interested in art as an effective way to involve students. I encouraged those who showed interest in art to paint murals on the classroom walls and to incorporate music, poetry,  and original videos as well as art  into their science projects.

 

 I was also influenced by my father who began studying oil painting at 50 and continued until he was 80. My desire to paint was put on hold all the years I was so busy teaching science. My first art class with Hank Mc Laughlin of Stratford in 2003, coincided with my last year of teaching. For the next  four years,  I was privileged to study oil painting with David Dunlop, of the Silvermine School of Art, and subsequently with Charles Ray of the Rowayton Art Center , of which I am an exhibiting member. During these years I have exhibited my paintings in many juried shows throughout the greater Fairfield County area.

 

I hope my paintings will heighten a sense of awareness and promote an appreciation of the environment with all its secrets and surprises. It is my wish that the viewer will be transported to  places of beauty that nature had already prepared, from rocky tidepools of a Maine island, to tranquil salt marshes, and  frozen winter brooks.