As a 32-year resident of New Mexico, Taos County for 28 years. I have been blessed with some of the most beautifully inspiring landscapes, and the most caring community found anywhere! They provide a perfect climate for my artistic endeavors.

I am a self-taught watercolorist ~ but a "later-bloomer". With a B.Sc. degree, specializing in Biochemistry and Veterinary Science, I devoted my life to Biomedical Research as a Research Associate, and in Clinical Hospital Labs for 48 years. Teaching Anatomy and Physiology at UNM Taos part-time was another aspect of my life. I worked at well-known institutions such as the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada, Scripps Clinic and Research Foundation, La Jolla and the University of New Mexico, Albuquerque. My late husband, Jim, was an engineer, inventing, designing, and fabricating lab equipment for analyzing cellular components and DNA for research labs. I assisted him with that business.

Upon retiring from my career at age 70, and after losing Jim to cancer, I embarked on satisfying my dream to become a watercolorist. As a youth drawing horses and other animals, I did not have time to get art instruction. During my long working career, art was set aside. But the flame continues burning with hope that some day I could revisit that dream. Just days following retirement, paper, brushes, and paint were put to work, creating scenes inspired by my experience and environment.

Watercolor is my preferred medium for many reasons. Its transparency and luminosity are captivating! Its "lightness” reflects the lightness of spirit and joy that surrounds me as I paint. Vibrant colors entrance me - popping out of the paper lively, or remaining soft and subtle creating an aura of mystery. Because watercolor can be difficult for a beginner, it was chosen for the challenge.

Each piece presents a new learning experience, and, hopefully, an advancement. Every painting has a story behind it, whether in real time, or from vivid dreams. Landscapes are favorite subjects, frequently including animals. (My youth was spent frequently drawing horses and other animals for the enjoyment.) But having matured, I now find human faces telling stories of their own. My familiarity with anatomy makes this easier. I have exhibited at the Taos Fall Open, the Questa Studio Tours and The Questa Library, where a painting hangs permanently.

Adding pen and ink to my compositions is something I'm currently introducing. Also, acrylic painting and mixed media art are on my agenda. An immediate goal is to become proficient at depicting movement and depth with light, shadows, and reflections.

Painting has freed my soul to become the person I used to be as a youth, not the person I wanted to be. I have finally become MYSELF. And New Mexico has provided endless opportunities for that endeavor!