You were born in Ohio, graduated from high school in California, went to art school in New York, and now live in Florida. What have you learned from living in different areas of the country?

I have lived in many states and believe it or not, I attended eight different high schools! My father was not in the military, he was just looking for the end of the rainbow. Moving frequently didn’t give me a chance to learn much about the different areas I lived, however, being the “new girl” helped me develop my skills as an artist. Drawing helped me to pass the time since I didn’t know anyone in school. Eventually, drawing became more important than having friends. Finally, I made friends at school because I drew well.

Is it true that you married a New York City Police Detective? Tell us how you met and where your life together has taken you.

I saw John in a Navy chow hall and it was love at first sight. We dated for 2 ½ months before marrying in 1965. It was a different time. We married quickly because of Vietnam. Within that year John was sent to fight for our country and while he was gone, I gave birth to John Jr. When John was discharged, we started civilian life in New York where he became a policeman and later a detective. Our daughter, Evelyn, was born five years after John Jr. We spent 22 years on Long Island and always loved art with a passion. John would watch the children on his days off so that I could paint and he would find galleries to display them. We have always worked as a team. I am sure this is the main reason for my success.

Your paintings are tender and seren,e yet you served in the military. How have you bridged these seemingly opposite aspects of your personality?

The military was not my choice. My father was on relief when I graduated from high school. Dad wanted a career for me and signed me into the Navy at 18 because they offered a nurses training program. The Navy and I were not good partners. Artists have such an independent streak! However, God always has the bigger picture in mind. Art takes tremendous discipline and the Navy gave me that gift. Today, I am able to meet deadlines and problems head on and accomplish whatever is asked of me.

What has raising children taught you?

Raising children is the most difficult and rewarding experience a person will ever undertake. For the first time in your life, you must become truly selfless. Your wants and needs come second. I sincerely feel children make you a better person. Nothing gives me more satisfaction and pride than my kids who are now 34 and 39.

Your paintings of angelic children really tug at the heartstrings. Where do you find the “angels” you paint?

There is a “fresh from God” look that children under 5 convey. Their skin is perfect, their eyes full of innocence. They look like little angels. I take those qualities and romanticize them. As far as the pink–cheeked children who pose for me, most are from Cotswold, England where we travel once a year.

Since becoming a grandmother, has life taken any unexpected turns?

As a parent, I was more of a teacher and protector. Now I am a kid, coloring, painting, dressing up, swimming in the pool, eating candy, etc. with my granddaughters Alexandra and Claudia. I get to see life through the eyes of a child. Any grandmother will tell you this is one of the greatest experiences in life!

Are there any other artists in your family? Did you have a mentor who encouraged you to develop your gift?

My mother was a gifted painter. Growing up, we always had paints and arts and crafts to play with. I would have to say, though, that my husband is my biggest fan. Many times I wanted to put the brushes down and take an easier road. Everyone is a critic in the beginning of your career. One must learn to have blinders and develop a tough skin through difficult periods. It takes years for most artists to hone their craft and a lot of patience is required until you establish a “name.” John has always been my unflappable cheerleader and coach.

At what age did you take an interest in art and how did you express it?

At age 10, I admired Rembrandt and Mary Cassatt. They were two very different artists with two very important messages. Rembrandt used drama through light and Mary Cassatt played on the drama of love between a mother and child. When I was 14, I picked up brushes at my grandma’s house and painted a portrait of Napoleon. I have painted ever since and continue to love portraying the human form.

You have been named Artist of the Year by the National Association of Limited Edition Dealers for an unprecedented eight years and have received many other awards for your paintings. What award do you appreciate most?

All of the awards are of equal importance and are precious to me. They are given with purpose and I receive them with great honor. Each award gives me a boost and more conviction to try to give collectors exciting images and paintings.

Before pursuing your dream as an artist, did you consider any other careers?

I was in nurses training in the Navy and had art not grabbed me by the hand, I would have become a nurse. I’ve always admired architects, too, and still have the desire to design a home.

Do you have other personal or professional goals?

My goals are fairly simple. I try to maintain good health by exercising and eating healthy. I try to be calm and unexcitable so that I can concentrate on my work. My best paintings are accomplished when I’m not too excited and not feeling too low. My professional goal is to paint each painting better than the last.

Your art is featured on canvas, prints, figurines, plates, note cards, etc. If you could place one of your paintings anywhere in the world, where would that be?

Several of my paintings are displayed where children are important: libraries, children's hospitals, schools. This is my dream come true.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

When you’re an artist, that’s your life. I workout every morning and am in my studio by 9 a.m. Another pleasure is doting on my grandkids. They live in Houston and I live in Florida. I try to see them every six weeks.

What would admirers be surprised to learn about you?

That I don’t have a driver’s license. When I moved from New York to Florida 16 years ago I lost it and never renewed it. It hasn’t been a handicap. John runs the errands, grocery shops, manages the business. I’m thinking about getting a license again, though, so I can drive my grandkids around!