Illustrations
I love creating artwork that has an element of nature or whimsy. I admire texture in nature and I enjoy capturing it in my illustrations. I am continuing to learn and discover what I love to create and have been excited to see what is down this unknown path. I hope to discover and develop my style and be able to create things I love.
My illustrations all come out of pages of my sketchbook or drawn from real life. I carry my sketchbook with me when ideas and inspiration strike. Some of my favorite ideas come to me in the middle of the night! Each illustration starts as a light pencil drawing. After I draw out the composition I begin to paint in the shapes. I test out each and every color on a scrap piece of paper before I paint it on. The is to be sure I mixed the colors correctly and limit mistakes. Lastly, I add ink to add depth or to sharpen the illustration. Sometimes I start with ink and then paint in the shapes. When my illustration is complete I scan or take photos of each one to be printed on special paper to keep the integrity of the painting.
Each illustration takes hours to complete and it is always rewarding to see it from start to finish.
My illustrations all come out of pages of my sketchbook or drawn from real life. I carry my sketchbook with me when ideas and inspiration strike. Some of my favorite ideas come to me in the middle of the night! Each illustration starts as a light pencil drawing. After I draw out the composition I begin to paint in the shapes. I test out each and every color on a scrap piece of paper before I paint it on. The is to be sure I mixed the colors correctly and limit mistakes. Lastly, I add ink to add depth or to sharpen the illustration. Sometimes I start with ink and then paint in the shapes. When my illustration is complete I scan or take photos of each one to be printed on special paper to keep the integrity of the painting.
Each illustration takes hours to complete and it is always rewarding to see it from start to finish.
Gardens and Landscapes
I participated in Little Rock's Garden tour as one of the artists painting in the beautiful backyard gardens. It was a delight to paint the scenery that was surrounding me. Along with painting gardens I have found inspiration on my friend's travels and places I have been to as well.
I participated in Little Rock's Garden tour as one of the artists painting in the beautiful backyard gardens. It was a delight to paint the scenery that was surrounding me. Along with painting gardens I have found inspiration on my friend's travels and places I have been to as well.
The Tale of Two Snowpeople - 2020-2021
A little snow girl wonders where she had come from and how the world around her came to be. She looks to Professor, another snow person who appears to have some answers to her big questions. This tale by author, Donna Poole, encourages young readers to ask the big questions they have been thinking about and to think what created the world around them. You can find this whimsical story and Donna's other books on Amazon. www.amazon.com/Donna-Poole
A little snow girl wonders where she had come from and how the world around her came to be. She looks to Professor, another snow person who appears to have some answers to her big questions. This tale by author, Donna Poole, encourages young readers to ask the big questions they have been thinking about and to think what created the world around them. You can find this whimsical story and Donna's other books on Amazon. www.amazon.com/Donna-Poole
Science with Scarlett: What Color Will It Be? - 2017-2019
Scarlett is a young aspiring scientist who invites you to participate in fun science experiments along with her assistant, Mr. Bear! Written by 2014 Michigan's Teacher of the Year and award-winning educator, Gary Abud Jr, Gary is a double cornea transplant recipient who, since having his sight restored, was moved to use his teaching gifts to make science fun for kids. I was excited to illustrate Scarlett and her science adventures and bring Gary Abud's ideas to life. You can learn more about Scarlett and purchase your copy of the book at www.sciencewithscarlett.com
Scarlett is a young aspiring scientist who invites you to participate in fun science experiments along with her assistant, Mr. Bear! Written by 2014 Michigan's Teacher of the Year and award-winning educator, Gary Abud Jr, Gary is a double cornea transplant recipient who, since having his sight restored, was moved to use his teaching gifts to make science fun for kids. I was excited to illustrate Scarlett and her science adventures and bring Gary Abud's ideas to life. You can learn more about Scarlett and purchase your copy of the book at www.sciencewithscarlett.com
Projects
I have ideas that are constantly floating around in my head. These are just a few of many illustrations that I have been working on. I am inspired by Michigan and the places, animals, and things that come there. I have also been inspired by nature and things that capture my eye when walking on hikes or visiting new cities.
I have ideas that are constantly floating around in my head. These are just a few of many illustrations that I have been working on. I am inspired by Michigan and the places, animals, and things that come there. I have also been inspired by nature and things that capture my eye when walking on hikes or visiting new cities.
Jefferson's Talent - 2014
Jefferson the ostrich is a boastful but talented ostrich, who can spin plates. His friends, Howard the cow and Sally the salamander are a little annoyed by Jefferson ruining their tea party. Feeling underappreciated, Jefferson leaves for the circus in hopes he will find an audience worthy of his talents. He then learns a lesson in humility and friendship.
This series was displayed at the Children's Museum in Grand Rapids, MI during Artprize 2014.
Jefferson the ostrich is a boastful but talented ostrich, who can spin plates. His friends, Howard the cow and Sally the salamander are a little annoyed by Jefferson ruining their tea party. Feeling underappreciated, Jefferson leaves for the circus in hopes he will find an audience worthy of his talents. He then learns a lesson in humility and friendship.
This series was displayed at the Children's Museum in Grand Rapids, MI during Artprize 2014.
Look Who's Coming For Dinner - 2020
I love and admire children's books and illustrations. I enjoy creating open ended stories through whimsical and inviting illustrations. This little mouse came across an unusual house with an unknown and unusual owner. Who could be inside this apple house? Is this mouse looking for a friend or food?
This artwork was displayed at the Black Box Gallery in Dearborn, Michigan for an exhibit of the art teachers and high school students of the Dearborn school district.
I love and admire children's books and illustrations. I enjoy creating open ended stories through whimsical and inviting illustrations. This little mouse came across an unusual house with an unknown and unusual owner. Who could be inside this apple house? Is this mouse looking for a friend or food?
This artwork was displayed at the Black Box Gallery in Dearborn, Michigan for an exhibit of the art teachers and high school students of the Dearborn school district.
