What is your medium now? (oils, acrylic, pastel, watercolor...) What medium have you always wanted to use, but haven't yet? What mediums have you used in the past? Why do you prefer your current medium?

My favorite medium is oil. With oils I can make changes of images, color and composition at any time, while painting, or later as I rethink the painting.

There is hardly a medium I haven't tried, but I am still exploring the possibilities in the mixing of mediums. Printmaking is a second love, and I have found some new challenges in combining etchings, aquatints, monotypes, and collagraphs with pastels, watercolors, pencil or ink—of course, not all of these together. Creating a painterly image is my goal.

What time of the day are you most creative? Early morning? Afternoon? Early evening? Late at night?

All times of the day are good times to paint. Morning or late afternoon for plein air painting is a preference because of the contrasts of shapes and colors.

How do you feel about critiques? Feedback? What are the three most important things you look for in critiquing a painting? Why?

Critiques by professional artists are invaluable. So often—even though I know better—a real "no-no" in composition, color, or whatever, has happened in a painting. I do like to let a painting rest for a few days and then try to solve problems.

When critiquing a painting, I look for an image that makes me want to look more. Then the basics come into play. However perfection of painting techniques cannot guarantee a successful painting.

Have you ever had a breakthrough moment that made you change how and why you do your art? What was it? How has your art changed over time?

Drawing and painting landscapes was my first love, but I could be happy drawing or painting anything. Working on a BFA in art at the University of Denver was primarily learning basics and art history. Later at American University, studying for an MA in art, the focus changed. It was a time of abstract art—stripes, patterns,shapes, pure color, etc. It was great fun! As time went by, non-objective art became a kind of exercise and no longer a challenge. Gradually realism began to creep into my painting and I knew that was where I wanted to go. However the background of design and color has been invaluable.

What do you think creates artistic blocks? How do you solve them?

When I reach a time when nothing is working, or I feel uninspired, it means that I am not reaching outside myself. It is time to spend time in our wonderful Washington, D.C. and Baltimore art galleries. Have a talk with other artists and browse through art books and magazines. And, oh yes, a country walk or drive can be just what it takes to get back on track.

What areas do you find especially helpful or rewarding in your art career? Do you teach? Give workshops? Own a gallery? Author a book? Lecture? Participate in competitions (either as a painter or judge)? Describe your experiences.

While I am retired as a full time art teacher, I teach once or twice a week in Leisure World, a retirement community. It is a most rewarding experience working with both beginning and experienced artists.

Once a week several professional printmakers come to work together in my studio using the press and equipment. All paint as well. We have a common bond with art and friendship.

Though most of us prefer working outdoors, do you prefer a studio where you live or maintaining a separate space? Why?

My studio is in my home, but a separate space devoted completely to art. It is large with three entrances, high ceilings and windows facing out into a woods. It has good lighting and is equipped with tables and a large intaglio press. Art workshops, classes, and meetings are held here. I couldn't ask for anything more.

Do you listen to music when you are painting? Have a TV on?

I listen to classical music and only turn the TV on when there is an afternoon Orioles baseball game.

When did you first want to become an artist? (And when did you realize you were one?) Did you draw or paint as a child? What were your subjects?

I began plein air painting at age nine, when I sat under a tree, on a rock or stump, with pencil and paper and sometimes a set of watercolors. Art has always been an important part of my life.

As an only child with parents who were pleased with their "art-bound" child, I just kept on drawing, painting and taking art classes. Then I was blessed with a husband who helped in every way through the years to let me continue with art.

Colorado mountains, skies, and prairies were—and still are—my favorite subjects.

Which art books or art magazines do you turn to for inspiration?

I have an endless supply of art books and magazines and am addicted to adding more. American Artist, The Art Calendar, and The Artist's Magazine are always on my table.

The National Geographic put out a series of books with superb photos and writing featuring nature's wonders. I frequently go back into them.

I am also a real pushover for "How to Do" books. So I look at old ones and keep on buying more new ones.

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