She continues to learn from the best teacher, her mother, Janice, as she develops her own style in this unique and timeless art.

{ Q & A }

What led you to this medium?
Merely chance. I would have no knowledge of this as a viable art form for me, if I hadn't watched my mom china painting while growing up.  She and my father used to live in Colorado where she began taking lessons from an elderly lady there whom I only know as Mrs. Duncan. My mother, Janice, had been oil painting for a number of years but painting on china was something entirely new and different for her. I was always interested in her art (and art generally) so it was natural that I would eventually attempt to follow in her footsteps. I owe the fundamentals to my mom and I owe my ability to progress to my husband and best friend, Timothy, who purchased my first kiln for me as a Christmas present. (Thank you both so much for your time and encouragement!)
 
How is the artform unique?
China is unique in that it is three-dimensional, usable art. It can, of course, be hung on the walls but it's also wonderfully functional. I love that one can drink tea from a cup that I designed or display flowers in a monogrammed or color-coordinated vase! Personalizing a piece makes it that much more special. I have painted many wedding gifts, in which the couple's wedding date or initials can be included. One of the most unique gifts that I've given was a cake server that I designed around the bride's color scheme accented with platinum.
 
What inspires your designs?
So many things. I love going to museums and studying the composition of both classical and modern art. Books on architecture or gardening give me ideas and I also read a lot of china painting magazines in which other artists share their work. But I can see something in the New York Times or on a home decorating show and be inspired. In terms of role models, my favorite (aside from my mother) is J.M.W. Turner, a 19th century English painter, whose use of tawny yellow light creates such beautiful depths. His work probably inspires my color scheme the most.
 
How does one take care of porcelain?
People tend to think of china as so fragile and, of course, it can break but it is actually pretty durable. Unless it has gold or platinum on it, I put my things in the dishwasher. Otherwise, I just hand wash it. The paint absolutely will not come off!  I have loads of china and in my 37 years, I have only broken one piece ~ a double globe bedside lamp that my mother painted for me. Luckily, she was able to glue it back together. Another thing that makes this art unique is that, while it is original, hand painted art, it is affordable and it's not the end of the world if you happen to break a piece, like it would be if you broke your great-great-great aunt's urn that was brought over from the Old World.
 
What are you currently painting?
I'm working on lots of vases, especially focusing on various ideas for centerpieces and accent pieces. I think they are such fabulous touches to a party or reception that can fit anyone's style. I am also excited about starting a series of tiles for display and, as always, I'm experimenting with 'Turner-esque' light and color schemes. One of my main goals is to jazz up this wonderful old artform, which was the domain of many Victorian ladies, with young, fresh designs!