I am a fourth-generation Napan, mother of four, an artist, a teacher and collaborator. As a teacher I like to encourage others, as a collaborator I like to engage a group toward a common goal. My paintings, however, are self-indulgent. They are a gift to myself that I hope others will enjoy. The image of the solitary winter vine probably best represents my attraction to simplicity, strength and emotion. I am drawn to strong shapes and images with emotional depth. My life is captured in every painting that I do. I hope that the variety and richness of my life experiences are present in my work.