I’m honored to be included in Lake Oswego’s Chronicle Exhibit this year. As a new twist to culminate the Festival’s 50th Anniversary, Chronicle Artists were asked to invite another artist who has influenced the development of their art. I would say that most of the artists in this exhibit have influenced my work in one way or another.

Artists can’t help but be influenced by all the work around them. At my critique group meeting this week, one of my fellow artists showed a painting inspired by my recent “Down on the Farm” series. Though his work looked very different than mine, the idea had inspired him. This kind of cross-pollination is what makes sharing our art so enriching.

It was difficult to choose just one of my artist friends as having influenced my work. Although our work and our personalities are quite opposite, I chose Donna Watson because of our habit of talking about the larger issues of art: content, motivation, and quality. We began exercising together in about 1997 and, as we walked and talked, I became a more thoughtful artist. We still continue to talk frequently on the phone and we ask each other the hard questions. Though I don’t always take her advice, her input has helped me to be more self-critical and to continue to grow.

I’m really looking forward to seeing this exhibit! Other participating artists are listed on the postcard below. I think you will find it interesting to see the influences, art and statements from each. I will be gallery sitting there on Saturday, June 22 from 6-9 p.m. If you can’t make the show next weekend, some of the artwork will be on extended exhibition at the 510 Museum and Art Space: 510 1st St., Lake Oswego.

Please stop in and see me! You’ll not only enjoy the Invitational Exhibit inside the Lakewood Center…. there are a multitude of things to do next weekend in Lake Oswego:

• Fine Arts & Craft Fair at George Rogers’ Park
• “Spoon” Culinary inspired art and the Open Show in the big tent behind the Lakewood Center
• Music and entertainment on the big stage
• Kid’s Events
• Food & Frivolity!

Come join the Fun! Click here for a map & shuttle information.

Event dates: June 21, 22 & 23 2013

 Lake Oswego, Oregon

10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday & Saturday
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday