Let's Get to Know Tina! 

1. How did you get involved in the local art scene and join Franklin Square Gallery?
I’ve been an artist for over 40 years, the last 30 years in PA. I got involved here when I
moved to the area 5 years ago. I was visiting Franklin Square Gallery around the 4th of July
and since I wanted to get involved in art locally, I asked if I could become a member and
they said yes! I love the people here. I really enjoy painting with the group on Wednesdays.
We have such an amazing group of artists here at Franklin.
2. What inspires you and influences your art?
I’ve always gone back to nature. Through the years, I’ve painted everything from portraits to
landscapes. And as we’ve traveled, I’ve painted what I’ve seen. Wherever I am, inspires me
in the moment. I like the calmness of nature and keep coming back to it. My art is more
nature and coastal since I’ve moved here, but I still like to paint different things.
3. What else inspires you?
My family and my friends. I have been fortunate in my art and now my children and friends
are more of my focus. Painting for me is a form of therapy. I love painting anything that
just allows me to disappear and get into my painting. I hope you feel it in my work.
4. What do you consider your style?
I would say my style is representational. I am enjoying the freedom to paint any style now.
For many years my art was very realistic, and when I moved here, I said I’m going to loosen
up. I want to just play and be crazy. I’ve always been a traditional painter and while my art
is not abstract, it is not as realistic and tight as it used to be. I don’t have that pressure
anymore, and I’m enjoying that part. I guess now it’s more representational these days.
5. How has your style evolved over time?
When I started out, I wanted to understand art. This was in the 70’s when there was so much
abstract and “do your own thing” going on. I felt it was more important to get the basics, like
composition, design, and color. I wanted to learn and understand all I could about the basics.
I wasn’t getting what I needed in college, so I studied privately with several artists. That was
more helpful for me at that time. I learned so much from them and began to put more of my
focus on my color mixing and composition. I really enjoyed that aspect. One of my college
professors said I was too traditional. It was tough back in the 70’s. Now I am really
enjoying the chance to loosen up. I take one painting at a time now and just go with what
inspires me.
6. What are the hardest parts of the creating process for you?
Hmm. Thinking about this. Actually, I sometimes hit spots when my creative fluid isn’t
flowing, or I feel stifled. It’s usually when I’m between pieces and trying to figure out what
to do next. When that happens, I try different mediums and change it up a bit. That usually

helps get me started on the next painting. Working with other artists is a great way to help
get the creative fluids flowing. It’s also hard for me to do a one person show, I really enjoy
just being in the background and letting my paintings speak for themselves.
7. What gives you the most satisfaction in your art?
Gee, you would think these would be easy questions, right? It depends on the piece I’m
working on. I guess the satisfaction comes when I’ve completed it. Each of my pieces have
different objectives, so when they are complete, I feel good.
8. What would you most like to try in your art?  Is there a new trend or style or medium
that intrigues you?
More acrylics, I think. I like the quick drying time with acrylics and it’s easier for me to be
looser when painting with acrylics. It’s also more difficult when doing a large painting
though. I like to play while I’m painting and that’s easier with oils since they take time to
dry. I’ve started working with jewelry too. Mostly for the holidays. I have been making
paint pour necklaces, I recently added turtles to my collections which I really love doing. I
also like that I have more time now to explore new things and play and enjoy myself more.
No pressure to produce.
9. Do you have some advice for those starting out and/or for those who don't think they
can create?
Oh yes, I do! I’ve had a lot of people through the years tell me that they can’t create. I tell
them “If you’ve loved art and always loved art, you’d be surprised at how quickly you could
become a painter, because you’ve been looking at art your whole life. You just don’t know
yet how to incorporate all that knowledge into a painting. With a little help and someone
showing you where to start, you’ll be surprised at what you can do!”
I’ve worked with several people who didn’t think they could paint and I can’t tell you how
exciting it is to see some of my students now painting as professionals, in galleries and
showing and selling their work! Everybody can create, you just need to know where to start.

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