How it all Began

I began painting in response to an accident that paralyzed my left hand (for several months). That was years ago!! I had been seriously studying acting and film making, and had the instant realization that my training was intended to be transferred to canvas. It wasn't even a decision - no debate. The accident was perfectly timed as I was on my way to college. I didn’t ‘know’ how to draw or paint. I had stopped trying like most kids around 3rd grade.

I sat down with with 'Yes' Album covers - whose artwork on the cover and accompanying posters were created by artist Roger Dean. I enjoying the process and was very easy on myself. I felt it was my purpose to 'figure it out.'

I took a class at college from a gentleman who changed my life. His name was Carl Hertel. He taught at the Claremont Colleges. He never taught 'how to.' He simply asked really hard questions and waited patiently. I think he believed we knew more than we gave ourself credit for. As he became the expectant student who could not answer his questions for us, we all thrived and embraced his challenge. While he was teaching us some pretty complex brain science - optical illusions, visual perception - he helped us make a habit of noticing small details. Meanwhile he seemed to be raising the self-esteem of our whole class. I know the other students were equally amazed at how he so gently nudged us to learn more than we knew we could.

About 5 years ago he came back to the college to speak. He was in his 80's and as wise as ever. (Former) students flew in from around the country. It felt like no time had passed at all. I give Carl a great deal of credit for continuing to inspire me today and will always be thankful to him.