One day, as I was gazing out my living room window at my lovely, tranquil courtyard, I took a long look at my 1947 garage which begged for the same loving care I had invested in planting flowers and adding embellishments to my garden. I considered the many options I had to transform it into something that I would love; something that would provide the same inspiration, create the same peace, that my courtyard does.  Almost instantly I knew what it must become. I said out loud to the universe, “I would love an Art Studio!”

 

I immediately put those words into action and within a few short months, and with the help of some very talented contractors, my 1947 garage was transformed into a magical, serene Artist Studio that I love! French doors open onto my enchanted garden courtyard filled with color, teeming with life, and as tranquil as a light winter snow falling silently at dusk. It is a home for my soul.

 

Growing up I always created things – I would even decorate my dog’s leash. I love color and making things out of nothing.  As an adult an artist friend introduced me to a way of painting that was a “free flowing” style. Something deep inside me caught fire. I shared my very first painting with my Aunt Ruthy who was an artist. It took her breath away.  I said, “Aunt Ruthy, what’s wrong, you don’t like it?”. She said, “Sheila, you are a true artist.” I was confused as to what she meant since she was always the artist in my eyes.  She said, “No, I am a copyist; you, my dear Sheila, paint from your heart.” My Aunt Ruthy and my girlfriend Karla Leopold were my biggest cheerleaders in my early beginnings.

 

Oftentimes, I’d get lost with colors, never quite sure where the creation would end up. My girlfriend would say to me, “Sheila, just get out of your own way.”  So when I paint, I have my three adorable dogs, soft classical music, a fragrant candle and most importantly, I invite God to join me on the adventure of creating. I have no agenda when I enter my Art Studio, just an open heart eager to see where God and I go.

 

Thank you for letting me share my journey. I love sharing my life through my art. My hope is that it imparts to you the peace and serenity from which it is born.

 

Until we meet, may God bless you.

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Sheila