I believe that my art is an attempt to recapitulate the first conscious observation of beauty. During a childhood on a farm in central Ohio, earthiness, tenacity and patience were so a part of daily life that they became ingrained in me. As a quiet and introverted child, I became familiar with the tiny miracles that take place on the edge of brooks, in woods and in fields. Perhaps this absorbed watching and careful observation most influenced me toward art.

Following an exploratory phase, I found a true path when I studied scientific illustration at the Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago. This discipline and exactitude of rendering gave my art a structure and me a reawakening interest in the natural world.

Over my career, I have been fortunate to collaborate with botanists, entomologist and researchers illustrating numerous books and journals. As I reflect on my work, I believe my true gift has been my experience as a parent of three children and as a teacher, constantly nurturing a sense of wonder, appreciation, and delight in nature.

My works has been an attempt to regain a child’s original fascination with beauty, combined with the accuracy of scientific illustration.