Ghost Ship Gallery

I’m a nature-inspired artist based in Washburn, Wisconsin. Daily walks along the shore of Lake Superior and the Northwoods of Wisconsin near my home are what typically spark my ideas. I stop frequently to notice details that catch my eye. I notice the trunks of red pines light up with an orange glow when the morning sun hits them; the way a pile of boulders along the shore glistens blue and purple after a wave recedes; the way a stand of dogwood flashes peachy red against the snow. These details take my breath away. I paint to remind myself of what I saw and the emotion I felt. I want my viewer to feel this too.

I primarily work with soft pastels. I love the organic feel of the pastel sticks in my hand (they feel like stones). I like applying color directly without tools and the crystalline nature of the pastel pigments.

My favorite way to paint is plein air. When I’m on location outdoors I can easily lose myself in my work for hours.

I’m fortunate to paint frequently with a local group of pastel artists who keep me inspired. My other favorite painting pal is my dog Sandpiper (“Piper”) who enjoys lounging near my easel while I work.