I grew up in a small farming communty in Iowa. Art was not really offered in our little school. I tried my hand at drawing rather unsuccessfully and art faded from my focus and I grew up never really having experinced the joy art brings into our lives. Then, as a young mother, I fell in love with painting when I took a tole`painting class on a lark with a friend. We just needed an escape and it was great fun. We used used oils and began painting on wooden plaques and glass. Soon I was painting on just about anywhere I could find a blank space to decorate! I tried acrylics for a short time but became frustrated with them and stayed with oils.
My husband and I began crafting together as my painting skills developed and he found an interest in woodworking. He cut out numerous items and I painted on them. We started selling in shops and at craft fairs, but discovered this to be a less-than-profitable-venture, especially in view of the meticulous work we did.
Fine art beckoned to me when I really began noticing watercolor paintings. I loved the look and had to try it and have been hooked on watercolors ever since. I have taken many classes in drawing and painting throughout my adult life and have educated myself by viewing and reading about art voraciously. My favorite subject is flowers, but I also paint landscapes, still life, and an occasional portrait, with my grandaughter being my favorite portrait model. I like to have life flowers to use as live models and find that I can really feel their beauty when I have them close and can enjoy their fragrance as I am painting.
I now have a modest studio in the lower level of our home and paint for several hours most days. I have taught a few beginning students in my studio and taught art in my parochial school as a volunteer for a few years. I volunteered when I learned that there was no art teacher in the school as the budget wouldn't stretch to pay for a teacher. I feel so strongly that art is essential if our children are to have a well-rounded education.
One thing I know for sure - I love to paint! I really feel blessed to have discovered how much art has enriched my life.
Marsha Woods joined Pixels.com Licensing on May 27th, 2008.
