Seasonally Featured Artist on the second floor in Chef Dre’s Dining Room. Her pieces are currently for sale.

I’m what you call a “late bloomer”, life happens and puts your dreams on hold. Creating has always been foremost in my life. Early on my interest was interior design. My dream was to attend interior design school, instead, I found myself raising a family. My father though was my greatest influence. Sketching came naturally to him, despite never receiving any formal art training. He also dabbled in photography, metal sculpting, and silk screening. He urged me to try photography which later would be my catalyst for painting. Eventually, at the age of 41, I completed my bachelor’s degree at Southern Methodist University, majoring in Art History.

Fast forward, early retirement steered me to a new form of artmaking. My interest in interior design and photography, combined with my Art History education swayed me towards painting. I started experimenting with abstract acrylic and collage on repurposed canvases. Most recently though I have transitioned to whimsical portraits in acrylic and watercolor.

My focus is women, and in particular, combining flowers with faces. My ladies are young and old, pretty, and “messy”. All look like they live a fun or mysterious life. One of them might remind you of someone you know.

For me creating is at times intimidating, but that's what makes it both challenging and exciting. My father taught me not to be afraid to try something new. Focus less on being good, or pleasing others, just enjoy the creative process and the thrill of trying something unfamiliar.

Many of my ladies are transferred onto make-up bags, wine totes, notebooks, and glass magnets. You can find them at the Meadows Museum Gift Shop and on my Etsy shop (mjredesignsgifts@etsy.com). They fit all occasions; birthdays, hostess gifts, holiday gifts, or just a great way to say, “Thank you”.