Memberships

April 2025–Present

I currently study with Bakersfield artist and educator Phyllis Oliver, a Certified Betty Edwards’ Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain instructor and expert colorist with more than 40 years of private teaching experience. Phyllis also served as Adjunct Faculty at Seattle Pacific University and participated in Betty Edwards’ final instructor certification program.

Studying perceptual drawing with Phyllis introduced me to a fundamentally different way of seeing. Rather than drawing what I think I see, I learned to observe the negative spaces, abstract shapes, proportions, angles, values, and relationships that make up what is actually in front of me. This shift in perception has profoundly influenced the way I approach my work.

Whether painting a horse, tree, landscape, or figure, I now begin by looking beyond the subject itself and identifying the underlying shapes and patterns of light. I often use digital tools to study compositions, simplify value patterns, crop references, or flip images upside down—exercises that help me remain focused on observation rather than assumption.

Although I continue to learn through workshops, instructional videos, and independent study, I am not interested in simply replicating what has been done before. I draw upon what I learn to develop a personal visual language rooted in my experiences and my appreciation for nature, atmosphere, light, emotion, and quiet moments of connection.

The principles of perceptual drawing continue to guide my practice, whether I am working from direct observation, memory, or imagination. Most importantly, learning to see negative space changed not only the way I draw, but the way I perceive the world. It gave me a stronger foundation for simplifying forms, creating more intentional compositions, and creating paintings that capture not only a place, but also the feeling within it.

As a dedicated member of the Kern County creative community, I believe in the transformative power of art—not only as a form of personal expression, but also as a means of inspiring healing, connection, and positive social change. My involvement with the Bakersfield Art Association (BAA) reflects this belief and demonstrates my commitment to strengthening the role of the arts in our local culture.

I have served as a board member and Vice President of BAA, and beginning in September 2026, I will serve as the organization’s Art Center Manager. In addition, I volunteer my time daily to manage BAA’s Facebook and Instagram accounts, helping promote classes, exhibitions, events, artists, and the organization’s overall mission.

As a member of this nonprofit, artist-run organization, I strive to contribute in meaningful ways toward building a stronger, more connected, and creatively inspired Kern County.