Portraiture became an important part of my life shortly after graduating from Layton School of Art in Milwaukee where I received my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Although there was no specific training in portraiture, the fine arts curriculum was invaluable. Real training began when I moved to Richmond, Virginia, and was asked by a friend to do sketches of her children. Her neighborhood was full of young families and soon commissions were coming in, keeping me busy for a several years. During that time, my work expanded from sketches to colored pencil, pastel, and oils. As skills became stronger, a distinctive style developed which has found wide acceptance for the likeness and personalities of my subjects.

In 1982, I began doing portraits professionally in the areas of Martinsville, Roanoke and Richmond, Virginia. Those early referrals have grown and expanded so that my portraits can now be found in private and public collections throughout the southeastern United States as well as other parts of the country and abroad.