From my earliest memory, I loved painting, drawing and just looking at art.  While every teacher encouraged me, my mother actively discouraged my art studies.  After I won a five-county art competition, she went to our school's principal and forbid any further art classes. 

I began hiding my art and art studies, sneaking classes, hiding drawings, etc. During my university studies to obtain a "useful" degree, I was able to work 32 academic hours of art and design classes into a journalism degree.  I didn't have the kind of relationship with my mother that she would ever notice what classes I was taking, so it worked out.

Upon graduation, I began studying privately with anyone who would have me.  While I worked as a journalist, I was able to study photography and had many pieces published.  My employers all seemed thrilled to have my design abilities put to work on their publications.  They hired a writer-editor and got a graphic designer-photographer for free.

It was important training and encouraged me to continue art studies.  Some years, I didn't have time to study, so I volunteered with museums and galleries.  Those times afforded me growth and opportunities beyond good feelings.  Working with curators of major museum collections, I was able to read, study and learn to see under the tutelage of some of the great students of art.  They would lend me their books, often getting me into private installations, shows and classes, opening my eyes to the art world beyond adult education classes.

A few years ago, I began studying full-time, exploring my own vision and finding the peace I only experience while painting or drawing.  I have a fortunate lifestyle that allows me many hours of studio time each day, where I am able to dig into my art without worldly interruptions.