Helen is inspired by the beauty of western North Carolina, in particular the woods and rivers around her home.
Helen definitely still considers herself to be an art student, rather than an artist, because "I still have so much more to learn."
Helen retired from full time employment and moved to the McDowell County area with her husband and best friend, John, in October 2009. Although she always doodled (especially during boring meetings), Helen didn't take art classes until about 9 years ago, when one of her friends talked her into taking a watercolor class at the local Northern Virginia Community College.
She had such a good time that she took another, and another, and another. A local artist invited her to intern with him, which she did for almost 5 years. Helen paints in water-soluble oils, acrylics, and watercolor. She has also done a few clay sculptures and some wood carving.
Helen's work has appeared in juried art shows and group and individual exhibitions.