Just had another great painting party  with a beautiful young lady and her family. They had a blast; laughing, joking,singing, dancing,listening to music and of course painting their masterpieces. My small conversation was with the grandmother who to my surprise was 86 years young. Now, she did NOT look anywhere close to her age. As if time stopped for her. To get to my point; she was a joy to paint with during the party. She jumped right in there and followed with my demonstration. Her painting was beautiful and  her  energy was vibrant during the event. I say this because no matter how old we get we can take a moment to stay positive,open minded and try new experiences. Not because we can be great at it or be a professional at the experience; but just because life is too short to not take a chance in ourselves. In my high school to college days I was frequently asked " what are YOU going to do with an Art degree or what kind of job can YOU get as an Artist". I am so glad that my jobs as an Artist, Art Educator, Paint Party instructor and Painter has lead me to meet so many people. I do pray that just like my 86 years young customer I to keep experiencing every turn life brings to me in my personal and business life.

My first and foremost passion in painting would be portraits. I enjoy the process of creating life from person to brushstrokes. My portraits can come in all styles; Realism,Abstract, Expressionism and more. In this painting "Evolution" Acrylic paints on canvas large 30'W by 40"L; my style I categorize as Expressionism. After each layer of color was thoughtfully arranged using tools I felt compelled to use; fork, palette knife,foam brush, painter brush. Afterward, drawing the lady onto of the layers of background color. The face and hair details are used with a small fine point brush. I love to capture the eye and lips as the focal point. The lips has a calm expression and the eye says I am here and I will not be moved no matter how much evolves around me, no matter how sad, happy, joyful I will be as I evolve I will not let this life break me. So, this is what inspires me as I am painting a portrait. I want to paint the inner soul, the reason.  
 She is yourself,myself,our daughters .....evolving from who she was to who she wants to be. Her eyes seek for the moment.  She saw life as simple to only find things were more complex.  No matter the force; she stands strong.