Where are you from/what is your background and how does that affect your work?

I was born in Natick, Massachusetts and moved to Cohasset when I was ten years old. Now, I live in South Weymouth with my husband. As a child, I always loved to paint and draw. I was encouraged by my mother. She would say, “you have a gift, you have to use it!” I was fortunate to have Tom Lucas as my art teacher at Cohasset High School. He knew I loved art and was supportive and helped me build a portfolio. I graduated from New England School of Art and Northeastern with a Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Art. The South Shore is beautiful and definitely influences my work, which is primarily landscape.

What motivates you to create?

Like most artists, I am an observer. If I see a gorgeous sunset, or notice the way the light hits the water, I am compelled to paint it. I appreciate the beauty in all things. Painting is my way of expressing my love of nature. 

How did you get involved at NRAS?

I believe I first became involved with North River Arts Society around 2007 or 2008. I remember going to the Festival and seeing all the beautiful paintings and photography and enjoying the crafts. Over the years, I have taken great classes and workshops. I have been honored to win awards in both the Juried and Members shows. I have also participated in group shows at the Ventress and Dolphin Galleries.

How do you define success as an artist? 

I enjoy the process of painting, working with paint and brushes and pastels, mixing color, making many decisions. I feel so fortunate to be able to do what I love. I feel successful as an artist when I have made a connection and conveyed a mood evoking a feeling in the viewer, even if its as simple as “your painting makes me feel peaceful.”