Finding Balance in Nature

Finding Balance in my life has always been a challenge — Work vs. play, time for others vs. time for myself. How do I maintain my equilibrium as people come and go in my life, and my relationships change? How do I balance acceptance with defiance as I age?

I find balance in Nature. Its design is pure harmony. When I am outside, I am totally in the moment and able to leave the rest of the world behind. When I return, I am refreshed and able to be truly present for the people and responsibilities in my life. My landscapes recapture the feeling of harmony I have when I stand still for a sunset or walk past a field of wildflowers. Glowing light, vivid colors and textures invite you into moments in nature where you can pause take a deep breath and savor the moment.

Pastel is my primary medium and I love its immediacy and vibrant colors. My pastels are applied to a panel under painted with warm orange, peach and purple acrylics which allow the paintings to glow. The acrylic underpainting is then coated with a pumice mixture to provide rich textures for the pastels.

I have been working with pastels for approximately 35 years. Favorite places of inspiration include the Eastern Shore of Maryland, the New Jersey Shore, the Brandywine River Valley, Hudson, New York and Maine or anyplace that can be seen from my kayak or while hiking. 

I have raised three amazing humans, am nuts about two grandchildren and maintain good relationships with all my many siblings. My husband of 40 years is still my best friend. Family has always been my priority. I have a studio at Aston Mills Arts in Aston PA where I paint to recapture the balance and harmony I find in nature.

 My studio at Aston Mills Arts is open by appointment throughout the year.