Clematis

I paint pretty pictures.

Cape Cod Summer

Lots of artists paint to convey the deep feelings they have about issues of importance to them. Their work is meant to provoke thought, conversation, perhaps even change minds.

I have painted since I was a child. Painting has always been my safe haven. When I was drawing or painting I could create a beautiful scene and get lost in it. That was my goal.

Some artists don't paint for an audience, they paint just for the joy they experience in the process of creating the image on paper or canvas that they see in their minds.

In high school and college when I painted my very realistic scenes or sketched, in infinite detail, a bug or a horse-crab or a flower, my art instructors would assure me there would be no interest in my work. I was talented, they said, but, not drive as a true artist is to upset the norm, challenge the bounds of my gift. I was hurt but not deterred.

It was the 1960's. Modern art was the only acceptable way to paint. I can do that type of painting. I even tried to embrace and enjoy that type of painting, but, I failed. It made my nervous, not relaxed.

I finally decided to paint just for me and to enjoy it for what it was, my desire to capture the beauty that is all around us and sometimes not seen. I mean who thinks a bug is worth drawing or that crab or the milkweed plant that captivated me while visiting my in-laws.

I do.

A walk in a West Virginia woods

Over the years, my work has been appreciated and I have sold many paintings and sketches to people all over the world. I've never made a living at it but that is just fine with me. I still paint just for me.

It is still the one place I can go and find true peace and enjoyment.

Sunset, Blackwater Falls, WV after a snow storm