What happens when a door to a new life opens?....you walk through it!
Doug asked me to marry him in Feb, 2011. Two weeks later, he had another proposal; that we both retire. It seemed incredible, unimaginable, and exciting all at the same time. Thus began a journey that involved the creation of a new life together. From my early adolescent years, I was a creative being. My mom taught me to sew, cross stitch, knit, and cook. As an early childhood educator, I created learning environments for children; as an educational leader I strived to nurture spaces for parents, teachers, and principals to grow. I have always believed that the development of each human relationship was critical to the learning process. There were many successes, learnings, and realizations along the way.
My creative journey evolved with the support of my friend and artistic mentor Ginger Hodges. Our weekly art sessions gave me the tools and space to expand my artistic soul. She gave me the scaffolding and tools to build upon my earlier learning. I have been heavily influenced by Kelly Rae Roberts, Donna Downey, Melody Ross, and Christy Tomlinson. While I have yet to meet them, I consider them creative angels that influence my thinking, guide my techniques, and provide encouragement to go forward.
The creations that find space in this shop come from a very organic place. I look for surfaces and materials along the clearance aisle, a thrift shop. and a friend's kitchen. I am heavily influenced by the textures and colors from my life's travels and from my natural Colorado surroundings. I have always gathered quotes and many of them find their way onto the canvases.
I thank you for stopping by. Brenda
