Acknowledgments

I was thrilled to be able to write this book and I’m grateful to everyone who picks it up, thumbs through it, and finds a picture or a page that causes them to pause and read more closely. Thank you. Perhaps the reason I even thought I could write a book like this is the encouragement of my husband and daughters, who stick with me through every artistic up and down.

When my editor, Judith Cressy, called me about beginning this book, I could hardly believe it. I so appreciate her guidance and patience throughout the process. Her good humor and keen eye made the experience a fun one. She made it happen. I was also fortunate to have Regina Grenier as my art editor; I admire the energy and artistic sensibility she brings to her projects.

One of the most important participants in this book has been my close friend, internationally known photographer Karen Hill. We have been friends since attending Pratt Institute in the eighties. She has documented my life with astounding photographs. I am so grateful that she took time to help me make this book more than just a “how to” project. Thanks to Karen, it’s an inspirational photographic document of my creative lifestyle.

I would also like to acknowledge the support and encouragement of all my students. I love teaching because of them. I have a special group, the Merrimack River Painters, who have helped me develop and verbalize my ideas with a clarity I could not have achieved on my own. I am so grateful for every student, of every experience level, who crosses my path and renews my faith in our desire to create.

Thanks to everyone. This has been great!

Great Island Beauty. Watercolor. 22" × 33" (56 × 84 cm).