I have recently retired from teaching Science in the Bryan area after 37 years. I have been artistically inclined all of my life, but being a paraplegic since 1999 has presented me with some unique challenges. I only have the use of a thumb and two fingers on my right hand, resulting in difficulty doing everything about painting. Because of this, it takes me up to four months or longer to complete each painting. I really put my heart and soul into each piece and it is definitely a labor of love.
I am not professionally trained, but I paint as a challenge to myself and as a creative release; a therapeutic endeavor to stay productive and keep a positive momentum and outlook on life. Completing a painting gives me a sense of accomplishment that I have met that challenge and I am happy. The thought occurred to me…perhaps my paintings could make others happy as well.
In November 2021, I won 2nd place in the Degart International Art Contest. I won 1st place in September 2022, for the Texas Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities in their National Disability Employment Awareness Month poster art competition. In August 2023, I was awarded the Gloria Bond Creative Aging Award from Art Spark Texas in Austin
