Some simple thoughts on my art roots.

My father encouraged me as a child and would ask me what I could “see” in the shapes of rocks while we walked along the river bank or about shapes in clouds and was amazed at the things I came up with.

He always wanted to paint but did not continue with it when he did not achieve the results he wanted.

My mother always said that she could not draw a stick figure and after years of my sister and me trying all kinds of arts and crafts with her, we concluded she didn’t want to do it.

I wanted to and had the drive to pursue the skill and my childlike

imagination remains.

Desire plus learning and practice is a formula that works.

I was fortunate to have college professors who were talented, excellent models of the craft.

When someone says to me, “I wish I could draw or paint like you do” I say that they need to spend as much time and work as I have to get where I am. We are all students but on different levels.

I choose not to write an elaborate piece of fluff about myself or my work because succinctness is sweet.

If you have any questions just ask and I will try to answer.

                                                           Ilene Petersen Book