Oil Pastels

Oil pastels are like oil and crayon put together. We hold them like a crayon but the oily texture allows the color to be spread and smudged.

My first experience with oil pastels was at The Center for Education on Death and Dying. I remember how the feeling in the room changed and it seemed we were all holding our breath as crayons and paper and oil pastels were tossed on the table. I loved the invitation of trying to “speak” in colors as I was not very confident at speaking in words! I still integrate oil pastels in my acrylic paintings.

Photo Collage

Photo collage is a way to use found images from magazines, calendars or cards and arrange them on poster board to express personal goals, solve problems, and have insight on life experiences.

A collage is useful at the beginning of a new year, or to “see” a way through a challenge at work or with the world. In volunteer work, I have led individuals and groups to do this insightful activity as well.

Acrylic Paints

Acrylic paints are easy to use at home, and cleanup is easier than oil paints, for example. I have painted on canvas with a variety of textures such as rice paper, cloth, acrylic medium textures, glass beads, and yarn or threads.

Painting has become my favorite method of art today. I knew little about how to paint, and I say I can’t draw a straight line, but that has not stopped me from exploring color and texture and shapes. I often draw birds or wings without realizing it until I step back and reflect on the images.

Painting on canvas is the most common way I have created paintings by commission for others, knowing only the colors they wish to see in their home. The paintings unfold with messages and images created thru me and for the customer.

Stained Glass Mosaic

Stained glass is a familiar art form that requires an investment in materials like colored glass, glass cutters, lead or foil, and framing. I have used metals on top of the glass to act as accents. I also design with agates, crystals and unique rocks.

My primary approach to stained glass is mosaic, where I cut and shape glass according to color relationships, making depth with color, creating an illusion of three dimensions. I love the richness of the color of glass. Sometimes I am able to create an actual picture instead of abstract shapes, but either way they show the passion I have for speaking in color. 

Feeling Color

Especially in stained glass art, we engage with color. As we look through color, we can feel and be absorbed by color and light. I move away from the flatness and feel the color in my body. I figure out how to put color next to color in an intriguing way; your mind wants to study it.

I aspire to reach a soul connection that bypasses the eye contact. If I have to process something that is still up in my head, not heart, I’ll do it in glass. There’s a commitment process – not when I cut the shapes, but when I glue them. I have to stay with that. Once committed, I have to work with that shape in the next piece.