My introduction to botanical art originated with drawing and watercolour classes being held at the Toronto Botanical Gardens. Those group classes encouraged me to further explore the complexities of this unique and specialized art form. I learned that plant identification through research is critical to creating scientifically accurate pieces, as well as developing the discipline of good observational skills. The composition aspect, making a piece aesthetically pleasing, is also a very important component. I enjoy the mediums of watercolour, coloured pencil and graphite. I learned the importance and the necessary understanding of colour charts, values and mixing of colours, pigments and permanence, all being vital when entering exhibitions.

I grew up in generations of amateur family gardeners and could see the benefits of some knowledge from times spent in gardens. I soon realized that there was much more to learn and discover, whether it being plant identification right from native plants to cultivated plant life, Latin names, families and species.

With every flower bloom, berry, leaf and stem, a plant holds its own interesting challenges for the artist. From colour, texture, light and shadow, all these considerations are made by the artist reflecting in the culmination of a successfully accurate and pleasing piece. I often create pieces combining new emerging buds, full blooms, and finished blooms. Sometimes I will show the infestation of an insect on leaves, or a dried seed pod, birds nestled on branches, incorporating them to give the viewer more visual interest.

Through class instruction, workshops, and the sharing of information with fellow artists, I have been fortunate to have developed a passion for this art form. I always hope that the viewer will see and share in the beauty of the blooms and plants in the details of my pieces.

I have recently relocated to Southern Ontario and enjoy the diverse agriculture and ecosystems of this Carolinian region. Many rare plant species can be found in this large area that stretches from the shores of Lake Ontario through Lake Huron to Lake Erie. Nature so generously provides us with an endless array of unique and wondrous subjects to learn from and enjoy.

I am a member of the Botanical Artists of Canada organization and have participated in numerous juried exhibitions over the years, and very honoured to have won awards and be recognized for my botanical art.