Painter of Nature & Nostalgia
Artist, Teacher, Texpat Francophile*
Obsessed with the beauty in the details, is one way that I describe myself.
Another is that I'm often overcome with anemoia: nostalgia for a time you've never known. I love browsing antique stores, admiring pretty household items & clothing from decades before I was born.
The fascinating details and impressive handcrafted nature of everyday objects of the past, built to last and still here to enjoy, continually delight me. Historic architechture, antique decor & housewares and vintage fashion are my eye candy. Life’s simple pleasures, such as picking fresh flowers from my garden, or walking to the farmer's market on a sunny day, are my biggest inspirations.
I began my art studies as a Studio Art Major, and earned a BFA in Design. I worked for graphic design agencies for several years, both in Seattle and in Germany, and then decided I'd like to be an art teacher instead. I went on to earn a Masters in Teaching and I taught high school art, but that wasn't quite right for me either. I moved on to creative entrepreneurial pursuits - including making handmade children's toys, co-owning a craft workshop and retail business focused on local makers, and later running my own retro clothing boutique until 2020.
Now, after many years of trying many things, I've realized that all I really want to do is draw & paint - and teach others the joy of it too! I currently work part-time from a sunny little home studio in Austin, Texas, and part-time from an amazing old house in the Loire Valley of France.
Artist & Teacher
*Texpat Francophile
What is a Texpat Francophile???
It's a name I made up for myself as I make the transition from living in Austin, Texas, USA to a new life as an expat in France.
My husband, Patrick, and I are fixing up a beautiful, higgledy piggledy, very old house in Amboise. Our dream is to hold art workshops at our maison bourgeoise in the historic quarter once we've restored her to her former grandeur.
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Take a peek at our wacky wonderful French house & follow our adventures!
We're "Austin to Amboise" on YouTube & Instagram:
