About Linda

From a very early age I sketched and painted whenever I got a chance. I filled many, many sketchbooks with drawings. I soon found that other classmates saw me as "gifted". Art also allowed me a voice and a form of self expression, as I was very shy. I was encouraged to pursue art as a career by my friends and family.

I attended Eastern Oregon State College (now Eastern Oregon University), and received a Bachelors degree in Art and Secondary Education. I also attended Western Oregon State College and received a Fifth-year degree. I taught Secondary and Elementary Education for several years, than began teaching as an Artists-in-Education for the Eastern Oregon Regional Arts Council. I found that this was my greatest love. I have taught in the schools for the past thirty years. While working in the schools, I taught painting and weaving.

The underlying theme of all my works shows my love of life and nature. I grew up in Eastern Oregon, roaming the vast open spaces. Land, skies, water, trees, animals and flowers are repeated throughout all my paintings.

I have many mentors who have had great influence in my paintings. While in College, I was inspired by Ian Gatley, Judd Koehn, Tom Dimond and Leona Golz. I love and admire the work of Don Gray. I have also been greatly influenced by the work of Judy Morris, William Reece, and of course Charles Reid.

My paintings can be seen at the Mitre's Touch Gallery in La Grande, OR. The Ranch Art Galley in Burns, OR. Edge Coffee Lounge. Art Studio and Gallery in La Grande, OR and Crossroads Art Center in Baker City, OR. I have also had numerous shows throughout the years and have won several awards for my works. I have been a member of the Watercolor Society of Oregon since 1980.

During the 1980's I began constructing stained glass windows for churches. I have completed windows for churches in Burns, Halfway, Richland, Elgin, Cove, La Grande, and North Powder, OR. I have also constructed windows for a church in Caldwell, ID. I have recently learned glass fusing, and hope to use it in the construction of new works of art.

I have had the great pleasure of painting a new medium (Batik Watercolor). I learned the technique from Sue Orlaske, Jan Clark and Denise Stone. The technique incorporates the use of paints, wax and handmade papers. The four of us have been meeting to paint, exchange ideas, share companionship and in general, have fun. We have formed a group called Batik Convergence. We look forward to many more good times and showing our work in galleries.

I will continue to paint every chance I have. I am happiest when I am painting. I also will be having show at the Crossroads Art Center in Baker City, OR for the month of November 2009.