My Story

Several years ago, my husband and I were at an art fair while vacationing in Santa Fe, New Mexico. To my surprise, I spotted an artist I'd seen featured in a video in a continuing education class for teachers. ( I was NOT an art teacher!) Impulsively, ( I AM impulsive!) I stopped her, and told her how I'd seen her video, and how I had always wanted to learn to make art., but was afraid to try. (Does this sound like you?) She was surprised by my boldness, yet gracious, and after our short conversation, we parted.

A little while later, someone tapped me on the shoulder. I turned around, and there she was, tall, dreadlocked, clothed in bright African garb, drenched in Santa Fe sunlight handing ME a piece of artists paper, and a pen. She looked me in the eye, and in a gentle, but firm voice, said, "Just start." It was one of those magical movie moments pregnant with meaning, and a full-on orchestral crescendo! Dazed by her aurora, I had no choice but to follow her advice!

Since then, I've taken a few art classes, watched some tutorials and bought some books. I paid attention to anything having to do with art and design, including all those home decorating TV shows.. I started painting on canvas, then on found objects. I collected vintage fabrics and doilies, and experimented with them. My husband started working in live-edge wood, and together we sold our goods at arts and crafts fairs. We are now retired from our day jobs, and bought a property that includes a separate two story garage for our workshop and studio. We've dubbed it,"The Barn." The Barn is where we endeavor to develop our creativity further.

My messy studio upstairs in "The Barn." It's a work in progress as we get settled in.

There's also a cozy sitting area I plan to fill with my beloved New Mexican art and artifacts.

Somewhere along this journey, I was flattered to hear people begin calling me creative. Had I really become creative? They also asked me for help. I love helping! I love learning too, so what better way to do both than to create a blog where I have to learn creative techniques in order to help you become more creative? It's a win, win! So, come along with me on this journey, shed your fears, and learn how to create beautiful things. After all, "The Earth without art, is just Eh!"

Nothing better than Mother Nature's artwork for inspiration! This is the view from the studio. Love it!