I consider myself very blessed to have been able to have career working as a creative person. I am going to age myself here, but my career largely has been tied to the screen. I got started in my professional life about the same time that computers were revolutionizing the graphic design and printing industry and I jumped in and have been tied to the mouse and keyboard ever since. Over years I always wanted to get back to brushes and paints and break away from the digital realm, but with work and family, kids and commitments, there wasn’t enough fuel in the tank to start the engine. Brand new tubes of paint and pristine brushes sat idling in a drawer and a nice new easel sat in the corner collecting dust.

A few significant changes opened the door for me and helped me get going. I started working for myself in 2016 and have enjoyed increased flexibility in my schedule. Also, my kids grew up. I have three children and now the youngest is off at Clemson. Maybe the most significant change occurred when we bought a new home and moved. Our new house has an office for my design business, and also a separate workshop. Having a dedicated space got me excited about using it!

Then Coronavirus hit and I found I had a little (or a lot of) extra time at home. What to do? I was a little worried when I started that I would be disappointed in my results. But it has been true joy! Sure, there are times in the process where I hit a wall, or am dissatisfied with where the painting is headed. But I’ve learned that’s a lot like life and sometimes you have to take a breather and step away. Sometimes you need to yield and follow a new direction. Plus, it always helps me to pray. For me, painting is a lot like a prayer.