I was born in Ansbach, Germany, educated in Germany and immigrated to America at the age of 21. I was introduced to art by my father, a professional baker, who made his cakes and pastries a work of art. His cake decorating style was admired by many. I have worked in a variety of mediums such as water- color, pastels, acrylics and oils. I take my inspiration from the world around me. Nature itself provides us with so many subjects to paint. In some of my work, I combine realism with abstract, contemporary with impressionism. For me painting offers solitude, relaxation and total escape from daily life. I enjoy working with a variety of tools, laying the colors onto the canvas, and watching the painting come alive. Occasionally I like to step out of my box and write a book. I find much joy submitting my thoughts and ideas onto paper, and seeing the finished product emerge. The greatest joy I get is when people tell me how much they enjoyed reading or viewing my new book.