Work in progress of the wetlands at Indiana Dunes State Park. Pastel on gesso board 9″ x 12″

As 2016 draws to a close, I’m waiting for the beginning of a new year surrounded by friendly evidence of a creative venture that exceeded my wildest dreams. Every one of these pieces that crowds my table holds pleasant memories of friends and beautiful natural places whose essence lies waiting to be experienced and captured. I learned to move beyond my comfort zone, to show up despite the fear, to stop judging, to encourage others to participate, and to enjoy the process regardless of the product.

The best part of all is that I can still live these experiences through photos and unfinished paintings that will carry me throughout the grey winter months in my warm studio. Better yet, there’s a new grant and more memories to be made in 2017.

Thank you to all who’ve followed along on this journey, and a happy New Year!