1. Can you tell us about your journey as an artist and how you developed your style?

From the beginning of my artistic journey, when a crayon, then a pencil, then charcoal and pen and ink helped me to convey and express my inner thoughts and inner turmoil on paper, there was a burning desire to include more substance in my work. I graduated to oil paints, dabbling in abstract, which did present a freedom of flow I enjoyed, but chronic migraines made worse from the oil paint emissions and the recurring call for realism renderings helped my gravitation to water-based mediums. The joy I felt as I manipulated the watercolors on my chosen surface, and then the incredible control of the acrylics which lent themselves fully to the finest details I desired, were magic… I was hooked.

My shift from realism to photorealism to hyperrealism had begun. As a child I studied ballet as well as classical music, receiving my teacher’s degree in the latter. My cultural background was very Canadian – multicultural, polite, inclusive, diverse, tolerant, outdoorsy, community-oriented, and unfamiliar with violence and hate. Spirituality was and is very important to me in the sense that the acceptance of a higher power allows me to humble myself to the point where I can find a sense of purpose. It fills me with hope, a deeper meaning of life, and a strong desire for harmony.

2. How would you describe your artistic style and the main themes explored in your work?

My artistic style is hyperrealism, with just a touch of abstraction now and then. Everyday moments really capture my attention. Ones that trigger memories or evoke a strong emotional reaction on my part quickly become my next theme and obsession. By observing these often-fleeting moments, I notice my views on life, especially in terms of time and how little of it we as individuals have, and how narrow one’s own perspective can be. I use these moments to spur growth in myself with a desire to enhance the human experience.

3. Can you tell us about the artwork that received the award and what inspired it?

My inspiration for Hidden Grove came as I stood in the middle of this spectacular spot in the rainforest in BC, simply mesmerized and overwhelmed by the beauty around me. My artistic journey has been greatly enhanced by participating in international exhibitions, which number 1,160 to date! The exposure from them has been nothing short of fabulous.

4. What does your creative process look like, and what do you enjoy most about making art?

My ideal workspace is my studio overlooking the Rainy River out my south window, where the scenery is divine and the wildlife plentiful. My three dogs and Maine Coon rest close by and barely stir as I rise to take a break and play a tune on my baby grand piano, which sits proudly in the middle of the room.

Inspiration for me is never a problem as I see my art as the puzzle pieces of who I am—the memories of my life thus far that have accumulated to bring me to Cher today. Then, with more ideas than I shall ever live long enough to paint, I zero in on a few and find great inspiration in new creations.

5. What are you working on now, and what are your hopes for the future?

Presently, I am working on a number of commissions, but I am still finding time to work on a few of my own desired themes: shiny, reflective vehicles and delightful children.

Published by New Road 2 Art Editorial Team