Biography

My metaphorical paintings offer you imagery to explore, discover and interpret again and again. Using the ancient medium of encaustic to create symbolic imagery rooted in new thought beliefs feels like a sacred process for me. Through this process I bring you layers of vibrant colours, rich tactile textures and symbolic surprises. I hope that you discover pieces that touch your heart and soul. ‘The right piece of art’ for you will resonate and dialogue with you.

My own sense of discovery and artistic voice was nurtured early.

My very first studio was in my grandparents’ humble, war time home in the small, mining town of Geraldton in Northern Ontario, Canada. I’d sit for hours at their formica kitchen table and fill the endless, loving supply of blank pages. My grandmother also taught me to explore the wonders of the natural world. We roamed and mined the rugged forests and shorelines for treasures. I fondly remember adorning the table with arrangements of beautiful wildflowers, rich green moss, gorgeous stones, textured pieces of driftwood and colourful berries. A deep love and connection with nature and my early voice with collage were established. This rooted me and gave me a touchstone to return to when life brought challenges.

The ebb and flow of life found me acquiring university degrees and a career nurturing teenagers’ artistic voices.

As a secondary school art teacher and department head in the Greater Toronto Area, I witnessed the cathartic healing and empowering forces of art. Listening to my own voice nurturing students helped me to overcome the disempowering voices I’d been exposed to in the past. Art matters! Simultaneously, I was blessed with my own stream of empowering mentors and I dived into reading work from new thought leaders. Opportunities and recognition poured in as I exhibited in numerous shows, juried shows and coordinated art focused events.

I often wonder how my grandparents would respond today if they knew I was one of three Canadian artists and one of the seventy-nine selected throughout North America to be featured in the publication, Encaustic Art in the Twenty-First Century. (Schiffer Press, 2016)

I imagine how their faces would beam hearing how one collector describes my work as “magical wonderlands”! They would be so very pleased to know that my work is part of many collections throughout North America and that I was recently featured on CTV news.

Now, living in Canada’s premier arts town, Stratford,  my rescue cat ‘Queen Liz’ and I embrace a whole new chapter. My heart directs me to embark on a social mission with some new  creative offerings. In addition to my fine art originals, archival limited edition prints and art cards, you will now find items to adorn both yourself and your spaces with a whole new line of heart based cards. This venture of Heart Space Gifts will support Optimism Place, a women’s shelter with a portion of the proceeds. Women helping other women resonates deeply with me.  

If you’re in the area, you may find me at one of our many delightful cafes with my camera, a good book and clusters of feathers in my pockets!  You’ll discover those feathers amongst other symbols in many of my works in my home based Studio Loft and Gallery that holds space within this gem of a community! 

I invite you to take a wander through my shop and be open to connections. Please explore and discover your own personal associations within the imagery. May you be open to receive a message that feels “just right for you” that can give you a deep sense of connection within your space. 

As more unfolds I’d love to continue sharing with you. Please sign up for my newsletter and be one of the first to know when new works emerge. I am honoured that you wish to stay in touch.