How did you first get involved with LVA?
In third grade I was invited to take free after school art classes from LVA. I still remember one of the paintings I did of my family packing up the back of the station wagon for a trip. Sorry to say I don’t know what happened to the piece but it may be best as my memory has preserved it.
When did you first know that art was going to be a big part of your life?
In college I planned to go into medical illustration. To be honest, it wasn’t until college I realized art making could be a full-time gig. I took time before grad school to work at a frame shop and paint, and there was no looking back. I went on to receive a graduate degree from the New York Academy of Art, painting and drawing, versus pursuing a more practical degree of medical illustration.
What does LVA add to your life?
LVA has been a staple in that I circle back around at different times in my life to re-find the organization: from being taught art lessons as a child, to teaching children as an adult, to showing in the annual shows, to having my own children take classes, to the Open Doors programs and to Open Studio weekend. I commend the people that have kept the art spirit of LVA alive, vibrant, connecting, and giving over many years. Thank you!
How else are you involved in the community?
I have been a local artist for over 25 years, working as an artist in the community as a muralist, as a teacher at times, and as a believer and supporter of the regional visual arts.
Describe your perfect Sunday afternoon.
Out door time in sun- working in my yard, contemplating flowers and where in the yard they would be happier.
Who is your favorite local artist?
I need to get out to galleries and studios more because there are many great working artists in our community! And there is no central water cooler hang out! Looking back, I will always be grateful to Mary Louise Schrodt, who showed me how to bring those patches of yellow oil paint together into the petal of a rose. It was magic before my eyes to make form happen on canvas.
Where would you like to see Louisville 10 years from now?
I do wish the visual arts of Louisville received more community support. I would like Louisville to join the ranks of other cities that devote a certain percentage of new building dollars to art within and around the building site. It makes total economic sense as we make our city ever more inviting.
What neighborhood do you live in? What are some of your favorite things about it?
I live in Old Louisville and wouldn’t live anywhere else in Louisville! From the architecture to those within – all are unique, some in peculiar ways ;-) It makes for a fairly diverse community.
What three items would you bring to a desert island?
A pencil, since drawing is at the heart of art making for me, lentils, and my kitty cat Tux, who is forever entertaining and loving.
What advice would you give your past self if you could?
Doors open, even as they close.
