Why Do I Paint?

I want my paintings to tell a story, whether it is about a threatening harvest sky or a sunny courtyard in Mexico. It is even better if the painting asks a question: What is behind that door? Where is that beautiful valley? Do flowers really dance?

I am fortunate to have grown up in a creative atmosphere. Whether my mother knew it or not, she was an artist at heart. We grew up watching her create everything from wheat weavings and Ukrainian Easter eggs to wedding dresses and hand-stitched quilts. I was always interested in art but the desire was secondary to raising a family and life on a farm.

Our move to Creston, BC gave me the opportunity and time to pursue painting. I was ready: I had taken art classes at university when I was young, and I had a stack of art books but that was just a teaser for the real thing! The scenery of the Kootenays was an inspiration for a beginner with new paint brushes but joining the Creston Art Club was the kick-start I needed. Now we live in High River, Alberta and I have new skies and new influences to explore.

As a reminder that our roots prevail, I've painted prairie scenes of combines at harvest, now-abandoned grain elevators and railway tracks. Our travels in Mexico have also been a strong influence and inspiration. Mexico's vibrant mix of old and new begs to be captured on paper.

Watercolor is an intoxicating and tricky medium in which to work - every project teaches a lesson. There are times when the painting almost seems to flow out of the brush, as if I have to hang on for the ride. You can explain it in technical terms but I'm more apt to recognize it as a creative spark and a need to share how we see the world.

It is through artistic expression that we tell our story. I want the viewer to see a different side of Mexico, a scene that does not make the evening news. I want to give the viewer a sense of the beauty of the prairies. You might see a sunset with different eyes. You might remember harvest time at your grandparents' farm. And you will have your own story.