I am a charcoal and pen-and-ink artist, inspired by memories, observation and imagination. My charcoal drawings often lean toward photorealism, capturing intricate details, while my pen-and-ink illustrations explore the whimsical theme of treehouses.
I have always been creative. In recent years, I’ve found a deep connection with charcoal—a medium that allows me to recreate images with a tenderness and depth. My process begins with an inspiring scene, often captured on my phone or shared with me. These images pull at my heartstrings, sparking the determination to draw them.
First, I work to get the big features and outlines down on charcoal paper so the proportions are accurate. The first layer of charcoal is not impressive but then comes the sheer delight of watching it come alive as more charcoal is added with pencils or powder or removed with different types of erasers.
In contrast, my treehouse collection has allowed me to illustrate the playful side of my thinking. I brainstorm with whoever is with me. I suggest a theme and ask for any ideas that come to mind and then I create lists and start to draw. When I have sketched a scene, I am happy with, it is redrawn in pencil and copied in ink.
My work has been included in local and national juried shows. I am proud to be an Artist Member of the Newburyport Art Association. What began as a personal passion has become an opportunity to share my art. Whether through the realism of charcoal or the whimsy of ink, I hope to pull along whoever will join me to discover little moments of joy that bring a smile.