Here and Now:

Today, I find my self saying over and over again, “Moving here was the best decision I ever made!” We have carved out a niche in this island society that seems to suit us both perfectly. With such a high percentage of folks committed to the arts: knitting, quilting, pottery, carving, sculpting, painting, etc, it seems to infuse all the events and gatherings with a heightened focus on self-expression and discovering beauty. I find enormous joy in avenues far beyond studio painting: hosting the local 3rd grade class into my studio for a demonstration – many who are the children of talented artists themselves, well versed on creating self-portraits and the tools of the trade; or sketching portraits on a Saturday morning near the ferry landing and getting to know my fellow islanders; setting up my easel during the Canada Day celebration at Rebecca Spit to capture the small craft gathering for the annual fireworks display while friends and neighbors stop by with words of encouragement.