JMP12 Painting

Since childhood, I’ve used many different vehicles as my means of expression – drawing, mixed media, collage, photography, painting, fashion & interior design. Drawing inspiration from within & without, knowing that there is art in everyday life & everyday life in art, over time these various activities have informed one another. My art training began in grade school with my Father, a commercial artist, whose weekend activities included watercolor painting, copper enameling, and working at the Wilmette atelier of ceramist Eugene Deutsch. I recall one visit where they hoisted me up onto a stool to play with the clay & slip. I considered any materials related to art making as my preferred toys. I still do. My mother would have to check my pockets before laundering as they were always crammed with chalk, pencils & crayons. My Junior High & High School years brought art contest awards & a request to conduct a summer art camp for neighborhood children. Approaching my college years, I felt compelled to pursue Fashion Design attending the Ray-Vogue College of Design and graduating with top honors. During my 30 years in retail, I held various positions as buyer, department & store manager, in house private label designer & Fashion Director. Charged with the responsibility of reporting worldwide trends, my camera was my constant traveling companion during my tenure as Fashion Director for Marshall Fields. It still is - serving as my visual diary. Eventually my passion for fashion diminished and in its place the art of interior design took hold. In 2001, I launched my own color consultation/interior design business which enabled me to utilize my artistic talents to fulfill specific needs. It was an immensely rich and rewarding experience.Upon retirement, I returned to my roots to engage in the joyful “play” that art making is for me.