Artist Statement:

I paint with acrylics on gourds grown in a field along a path between my home and my studio, “The Uncommon Gourd,” in rural Brown County, Indiana. I have painted all my life, but only took up gourd painting after my dad brought me a gourd from his farm in the mid 80’s and suggested, “Why don’t you paint on this?”

To some I apply Paperclay that I sculpt to add a touch of whimsy, creating roosters, birds, fish, Halloween cats, jack-o-lanterns, snakes and other ghouls. I also paint country scenes in miniature depicting the country life of years past. All are finished with a clear protective coating and decorated with small beads on sinew to create a beautiful and unique treasure. Also, in my studio, you will find my hand painted miniatures on wooden jewelry, together with folk painted tin, furniture, and more! 

At my studio, there are flower gardens of annuals and perennials with garden art throughout and the flowers continue on to the gourd patch, the herb and vegetable gardens.