I was born in 1956 in upstate New York. I love family gatherings, photography, gardening, swimming and being outdoors. I am married and have two adult children, one teenager and 4 grandchildren. My family also includes my chocolate lab and several cats.
I am an animal lover and am quite passionate about them. I have worked in numerous animal facilities, including The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, RescueOne sanctuary, and the Ohio Wildlife Center. Having worked closely with animals at the sanctuary, I have seen happiness and despair, trust and fear. I have been one of the few very fortunate people who have had some amazing animals trust in me and truly seem to enjoy seeing me and sharing my company. I believe eyes and posture express mood and intention. I intensely study the animals I paint. Even ones I know well.
I create most of my paintings from a concept I often formulate in my head. Usually something inspires me, and an idea is conceived. I often do many little idea sketches to make sure I like the composition. Sometimes the concept changes a bit as I paint. I invent a habitat that could very well be a part of the animals’ surroundings. I utilize many references for my animals, as I like to be surrounded with whatever species I am rendering.
I feel honored and blessed to be able to paint the incredible diversity of life we share this planet with. My hopes are to portray my subjects accurately and with dignity, and to invoke and inspire others to also become passionate about the all of our wild and domestic animals