After marrying and moving to California, I joined the Palo Alto Art Club (now the Pacific Art League). I took classes, exhibited and sold some work. Later when our growing family was more self-sufficient, I went to Foothill college. When we were transferred to Corvallis, Oregon for three years, I earned my BFA in painting from Oregon State University. I also studied watercolor for a year in a private studio with the head of the Oregon Watercolor Society. Upon our return to California I studied with a number of teachers at San Jose State University. I then began a career in the printing business. For 9 years, I was a sales representative for a large book printer and then went into commercial printing. For the last 8 years before retiring in 1997, I was a communications consultant and print buyer. This involved presschecking and production for intricate color brochures.

Although I enjoy working in oils, watercolor and pastels, my recent work has been in pastels. with a concentration in portraiture. I have studied with Bob Gerbracht for the past two years and have taken workshops with Daniel Greene. Through UC extension and workshops I have also worked with Ann Thiermann, a muralist who works in acrylics and pastels. My interests are varied and I plan to explore a number of different subjects now that I have the time to concentrate on my artwork. Plein air painting is of particular interest. There is something about capturing the moment outdoors with shifting light patterns that is very exciting. A series of Mendocino paintings is underway and recent studies of New York are being developed into paintings.

Since joining the Los Gatos Art Association this past Spring, I had two works accepted in their juried exhibit.

For more information, please contact Helen at:
12642 Biarritz Ln.
Saratoga, CA 95070
(408)866-1309
email: memapaint@aol.com

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