My mom was born in Burnaby, British Columbia in 1930. Her family made their living fishing and log salvaging. As in most large families of that era, money was tight. Mom and her siblings were from the generation of hard work & busy hands. I have early artwork of my mom’s and her sisters that were created with any material that could be cheaply sourced or found.
My mom’s creativity was passed down to me. I don’t remember a time in my life that I wasn’t writing, drawing, painting, or building something from something else. My efforts were always encouraged.
When it came time to enter college I initially took both fine arts and graphic design programs. Eventually graphic design took over as careers were more readily available. I continued to paint in my free time, as well as continuing with classes when time allowed.
After my children were born I rarely had time to paint – and, as I was painting in oils at that time I worried about toxicity. I put my paints away until the kids were much older. Now I am enjoying my return to painting on canvas or meandering about with my sketchbook.
I am deeply inspired by my West Coast surroundings and am happiest when outdoors exploring – whether through running, hiking, cycling, or most of all — Plein air painting, drawing, and sketching.
