I find a sense of peace and spirituality as I connect with nature. The location of the spot to be painted and its photograph, would have held a unique sense of meaning for me. There were often places to sit and allow my inner self to connect with the mystery of the earth. You will find most of my paintings include at least two of trees, rocks and water. I easily meditate or reflect in such venues and I try to bring that state of connection with all life to what I create on the canvass. What comes from within me speaks through my hands and the media I use, becoming a means of sharing connection to the spirit of nature with the observer.
I first recognized my interest in art several decades ago when I was newly married. I began with oils. When we moved to Owen Sound in 1970, I took courses at night school to further develop my use of colour and how to work with perspective. This interest gradually faded when we had three children in 4 ½ years. I often worked full time as well.
After retirement I found Zen Tangle drew me back into drawing and freed my creativity once again. I began using some of what I learned to expand into sketching scenes in nature, especially trees, with somewhat abstract surroundings.I began sketching with a microtip pen because that is what Zen Tangle suggested. Recognizing the benefit of adding shadow, I added a soft sketching pencil. My images were coming more to life.
I wanted to add colour to what I was doing. While I could have added colour with water colour, it is likely my initial work with oils that led me to acrylics. I love its flexibility and how easy it is to clean up. During the pandemic I did some virtual exploring with two local artists Sue Allison and Kelly Maw. Later, I was delighted to cross paths again with Carey Carrick. I have been developing my talents with Carey as my coach for more than 3 years. Thank you Carey.
There is much more to me than the work I do with art. This is only a small part of who I am but painting is a relatively new part and I am thoroughly enjoying it. I will likely add more to painting as time and life passes. It is all good.
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