We build schools

Children in underserved communities in Sierra Leone have unique God-given gifts to offer, and have a deep desire to go to school. If we equip them with a quality education and a network of support, they will achieve great things for their community and country

Biography

I have always loved studying and making art. When my high school offered special art courses, I took them, and they made my senior year wonderful. During college, while studying to be a special education teacher, I always squeezed art classes into my schedule.  After college, whenever there was an opportunity to take an art class or paint something I did it, sets for plays, murals anything that takes paint I would paint it. About fifteen years ago I began taking classes from Loretta Sailors, a retired art teacher. Her patience and knowledge helped me to expand my skills and produce lots of work. I sell my art to support Schools for Sierra Leone. That way  kids go to school, I get to paint, and donors receive lovely art for their homes. This is a win-win-win-win- situation.

How I got involved

“Would you build a Christian School for our kids?”  I didn’t know how to respond to this question while visiting in Sierra Leone.  To my surprise God brought together a group of people who planned an excellent school in the town of Kabala. Now, a dozen years later, two classes have graduated and the students have gone on to college. My part is simply to sell my art to support the school  Every four hundred dollars in sales sends a child to school for a year. What a great motivation to keep painting every day!

About my painting

I am what you might call a “colorist”. I love color- the way one color plays off of another.  The darks and lights, painting in front and behind on a surface. My favorite color is purple.  What is my favorite painting? The one I’m working on at the moment! I like to try new subjects and new techniques,  anything from animals to flowers to landscapes and abstracts too. Time flies when I’m working; painting helps me to avoid doing unwanted tasks.

Just about Me:

I live in Grand Rapids, Michigan.  I paint almost everyday, I just can’t stop.  I even dream about painting. Joel, my husband, and I have two kids and two grandchildren plus a little goofy dog.  We attend Church of the Servant where artists are supported and appreciated. I taught Special Education for 34 years in different schools around the country. This is my first year of retirement.  Oh yes, more time to paint.