I grew up in a family of scientists, spanning several generations. We traveled internationally and spent summers outside at a cabin on a nearby pond. I emerged with DNA at the intersection of uninhibited curiosity, a sense of adventure and a love of culture. I was a young athlete and had the opportunity to hike, run, ski, swim, cycle and camp, which activated my passion for the outdoors.

As I describe what inspires the imagery in my work, I look to the mountains, the forests, the rivers, the canyons, the sky and the wide open spaces that surround me. The colors, shapes and patterns of the landscape have crept into my work—water, willows, wind, the sun, snow, birds, clouds, leaves, moss, aspens, rocks and so much more. I spend a lot of time looking at and being in the wilderness. I am outside every day which rejuvenates me and where I am most at home. The natural world is a source of joy and ecstasy—I am in awe of its beauty, power and resilience.

I’m trying to convey the exhilaration, exuberance and vitality that I feel in the natural world. Alive! I want the viewer to see the energy, the movement and the power of life—of living things—in the imagery.

I love color. I love the challenge and excitement of juxtaposing colors while making a piece. I love the surprise and mystery of color as it unfolds through the process—not always predictable, and often thrilling.

When I was young I loved the work of Edgar Degas, Vincent van Gogh, Henri Matisse and Georgia O’Keeffe. Then I fell in love with the abstract expressionists. Being at the helm of an art school for nearly 30 years, I came to love and appreciate the art of 4 and 5 year olds, and the freedom with which they create.

I love combining media to create work—painting, printmaking, collage, drawing, encaustic and mixed media surface techniques. This work sustains and excites me—still—as I experiment with composition, color, line and feeling. I find art making such an uplifting and completely engaging practice… it takes my full attention and focus, and I am truly grateful for this time, right now.