Oil painting is my passion. I absolutely love to paint and paint with oils. When in my studio painting I am lost to the world and taken to the place where my imagination and paint brush become one. It is an exciting adventure to stand before my canvas, paint brush in hand, surrounded by the aroma of oil paints.

I have enjoyed the wonderful experience of painting with many talented and inspiring artist during my career. Two of the most memorable painting adventures were in France with Gale Bennett and in Spain with Charles Gruppe. In Giverny, France, located in the beautiful Normandy countryside, we painted in Monet’s garden. We also visited and painted the sites previously captured on canvas by the Impressionists of years ago. While in Spain we painted in historic villages surrounding Torremolinos. This fascinating area is rich with history, quaint villages and kind people. Thank you for this experience, instruction and inspiration.

All of my teachers have given special gifts to me through their instruction. I am truly grateful to them and will always remember their gifts. Of all of these wonderful artists there is one who remains very special. Evelyn Benham (1935-2002) was my dear friend and mentor. She inspired me with her artistic abilities and opened my eyes to see as an artist. I will always be grateful to her for her teachings but most of all I am honored to have been considered her friend. Among my fondest memories with Evelyn is the great experience of painting in Giverny, France in Monet’s garden.

What would a personal note be without the mentioning of the greatest source of love and support…my family (this includes our three kitties, pictured below) and friends. Thank you for everything. Without my family there would be an empty hole where my heart used to be. Thank you to my art angels who are always guiding my brush and my soul.

As I continue on my artistic journey I look forward to painting all of the paintings which are in my heart awaiting their day to be placed on the canvas.
Evelyn and Rhonda in Giverny, France