How did you first get involved with ASLD and when? 
Just prior to my mother’s death she expressed a desire to learn to draw and paint.  In support of this idea I purchased her a variety of art supplies.  Sadly she died before putting them to use.  As the supplies sat I mused that perhaps I should give it a try.  My partner, Patti, hearing this reflection gave me an art class for my birthday.  That was 17 birthdays ago!  Prior to that gift I hadn’t taken an art class since 7^th grade.

How has ASLD shaped you as an artist?
 “Artist” is a hard title for me to claim.  It is easier for me to say, “I paint” or “I am an art student.” Having said that, I think of myself as a very good art student and I’ve learned a great deal about drawing and oil painting at ASLD.

What faculty members have you taken courses with as ASLD? 
That first drawing class was with Mitch Castor.  I remember being very proud of myself for drawing “Tweedy Bird.”  I came home and hung my work on the refrigerator!  Over the years I have taken from Molly Davis, Rick Brogan, Robert Spooner, Quang Ho, Kim English, Jordan Wolfson, Ron Hicks, Karen Roehl, Andrea Kemp, Daniel Sprick and Raj Chaudhuri.  You’d think I’d get it by now!  And, when I look at this list I say to myself, “How lucky am I?”  Wow.

What do you like about the ASLD community?

 It is very welcoming.  Students of all abilities and ages are welcome.  There is always something new to learn!  I have made wonderful friends at ASLD.  That birthday gift is still giving!

Anything else you want to share with us?  
I have received a great deal personally being a member at ASLD.   As a result of my experience as a student, and a Life-Long Board member, I feel responsible for making sure this community gem survives so others can be as enriched by the gift of art as I have been.