About The Artist

Art has been an important part of Shirley's life since her days at Jefferson High School in Lafayette, Indiana. After four years of high school art courses, Shirley attended a two year Commercial Art course at St. Francis School of Art in Lafayette, Indiana. She has also had 3 1/2 years of training at the Indianapolis Art League, influenced by Paul Sweeney's art.

Shirley has always been interested in art, but has not had the time to devote to it. Since retiring in 1989, after twenty years with the Postal Department, she has had more time to immerse herself in art. Although Shirley began painting with oils, she has come to love watercolors. The thing she loves about watercolors is that she can paint anytime and as long as she likes. Shirley claims that watercolor does not have to be wet except for the washes. She loves the detail that she can achieve with watercolors.

The satisfaction that her art brings to her is why she paints. Landscapes and flowers are the images she loves to depict. Although many will say her work is exceptional, Shirley's goal is to keep improving and be the best watercolor artist she can be. Her talent has brought her the title of "Best Floral - Watercolor", in the Hoosier Salon and two purchase awards, along with numerous local awards. Besides being accepted to the Hoosier Salon, Shirley holds memberships in the Indiana Watercolor society, the Indiana Artist's Club, and the Kokomo Art Association, and the Kokomo Fine Art Center.

Shirley was born and raised in Indiana. She currently resides in Russiaville, Indiana.