My devotion to art and artists started early at The Cleveland Museum of Art, where I spent my elementary and high school years attending Special and Advanced Special classes for youth. After majoring in studio art at Marian University and studying history of art at the graduate level at the University of Cincinnati, I embarked on a long career in visual art administration, while at times concurrently and sometimes sporadically making my own art.

During a three-year period in San Francisco, I managed a high-end retail art gallery and had the honor to work closely with legendary artist and visionary Ruth Asawa on the establishment of an art gallery for children.

Before moving to Wilmington, North Carolina, I served for six years as first Executive Director of the Dayton Visual Arts Center. I led the fledgling organization through its early development and forged a foundation for the agency that endures to this day. Willis Bing Davis became my mentor and joined Ruth Asawa as my artistic pole stars. 

Whether it is behind the desk writing a grant for a community arts program or behind the easel losing myself in life drawing session, I have been devoted to the concept of the power of art- both for my community and for myself. Both are creative processes, which are symbiotic, one creative activity enhancing the other.

As I emerge from the role Julia Cameron calls the “shadow artist“ into a place where I am dedicating myself to the making of my own art, I proceed with gratitude to all the creators I have worked for and with whom I now work side by side.