2018 - MOMA - Postwar Abstract Painting

 

Since I don't have a formal art background, I have a lot of catch-up to do.  This free online class explains why postwar painters were so unique and how they created their art, including Willem de Kooning, Yayoi Kusama, Agnes Martin, Barnett Newman, Jackson Pollock, Ad Reinhardt, and Mark Rothko.

 

2017 - Art2Life - Creative Visionary Program

 

This spring I was a student in Nickolas Wilton's CVP program, focusing on the basic concepts of art, including design, value, color, texture, risk, and soul.  The program was intensive with homework and feedback.  It filled a lot of holes in my knowledge since I was never an art major in college.  It just completed in May, and I'm looking forward to using what I learned to further develop my own style.

 

2017 - Art2Life Academy

 

Following the Creative Visionary Program, I joined the Art2Life Academy to continue to be part of a worldwide group of artists supporting each other.  This program also offers training topics on many aspects of being a professional artist.

 

 

2016 - 100 Day Art Challenge

 

In September 2016, I started my first art challenge, with a commitment to create and share my art on social media for 100 consecutive days.  My mother became ill on the 3rd week of the challenge, and I moved temporarily out of state to become her primary caregiver and medical advocate.  

 

After many doctor visits and tests, my mom was diagnosed with a rare neurological disease.  She went through some very rough times, but is now getting treatment for this chronic disease and is much improved.

 

Doing daily art kept me focused and calm even while worrying so much about my mom. This 3 month period brought me to a deeper understanding of both love and the healing power of art, and I am so grateful for this daily practice.

 

To see the work I created during my 100 day challenge, search for hashtag #100daysartfun on Instagram

 

I also created a video summary on Youtube of the art creating during the challenge.