When I retired in 2003 one of the first things on my list of things to do was to learn how to paint. My husband, Richard, and I began to travel and the colors of the world opened up for me. I was fortunate to meet Katherine Mader, an established artist from Manhattan, during one of our trips, and decided to ask her if she would instruct me in water color painting. She agreed and we met once a week for several months for an informal art class. It was one of the most pleasurable experiences I've had. She was kind and patient and let me find my own style of painting which she feels is a very important factor when you learn to paint. She has been my good friend and mentor since then.

My children's book titled "How Rusty Rooster Found His Do" was inspired during a stay on a Caribbean Island. I was impressed by the local animal sounds and beautiful island colors and my husband was sure that I could put together a story and illustrations while we were there. I did just that, and now I can share that experience with my readers! I must say that retirement is good!

As a member of the Pocono Arts Council, I've met many talented artists and I've exhibited my art. I've also volunteered time in my home community to teach water color techniques to friends and neighbors.

Above is a photo of an informal artists' group meeting at my home. We meet weekly at various locations and spend time painting and critique our work together. New artists are always welcome and that keeps things new and interesting.

Below are photos of the Exhibit at Sweet Creams Cafe which was displayed in the fall of 2008. The selection of photography was done by my son, Nicholas Provenzano.  Nick is a very talented photographer, and he is also currently studying to be a gourmet chef.  He shows his artistic skills in everything he creates, both in the kitchen and through a lens.  Displaying my paintings along with my son’s work was a highlight of my painting career.

Artur’s and my exhibit of May – June 2009 titled “Photography Watered-Down” was a great success.  We hung our art side-by-side; the results were amazing. Our guests at the reception helped to make it a memorable event. I’d like to thank Artur again for sharing the exhibit with me and also Orange County Community College for the opportunity to show our art together.  Photos of my paintings are included in the “Water Colors” section of this site.  Please log on to Artur’s site:  ScenicRealm.com to view his photography.  You’ll see his complete collection of photography there and I know you will enjoy it.  Below are some photos of the OCCC Exhibit '09; the first one is of Arthur and myself.

My most recent exhibit was a shared-exhibit with the very talented students I have the pleasure to teach water color techniques to.  It was held on Oct. 10TH at the Top of The World Restaurant in our community at Saw Creek Estates, Bushkill, PA.  For some, it was a first-time exhibit.  All the paintings were wonderful and received compliments from our community members.  What more could a teacher had asked for?

The winter of 2009 was warm and relaxing on Saba.  I visited with our friends and neighbors and met weekly with the local artists to paint.  Here is a photo of us together at my home during one of our group gatherings.  Everyone created a great piece of art.  I also joined a group of local women who get together weekly to create Saba Lace which is a form of Spanish Lace.  Everyone was very helpful to teach their crafts to newcomers and here's a photo of the book marker I created with the group.