As a student I enjoyed art, especially drawing. During high school I was encouraged by my art teacher to pursue an art education. However, that idea was discouraged by my parents. So, through college and most of my adult career, art was not a significant part of my life.
In 2003, after retiring, I decided to renew my pursuit of making art. I began painting in oil, spending most of my time painting outdoors, from life. The joy and relaxation came back immediately - I can’t wait to get back painting each day.
I was somewhat intimidated in the beginning, starting as late in life as I did and without any formal education in art. But, I soon realized that it is what I want to do and the joy comes from the doing rather than the product.
I now paint in acrylic, which due to the faster drying time, has caused my work to become more “loose” than it use to be. I seem to gravitate toward structures, finding great interest in architecture and interior spaces. I like architecture because buildings mean something to someone, they have a history with the viewer can identify. Buildings evoke memories! Interior spaces interest me because they usually involve two kinds of light. There is the warm interior light along with the cool outside light. I find this play of two temperatures very interesting and challenging.
I do not have any “deep” philosophy regarding art. I think art is everywhere and in everything, and nearly impossible to define. I know what I like and have no quarrel with anyone who disagrees with me. I enjoy making art, but usually find myself liking the works of others more than my own.
