One New Years I was asked to do a large paper mache peach, to hang over City Market. Here in Georgia, we love our peaches! I’m 5’8″, just for reference; this peach was about 6’6″. Of course I thought of one of my favorite childhood stories, James and the Giant Peach, by Roald Dahl. Unfortunately, it rained all weekend, and the peach wasn’t meant to endure such hardships. Luckily, while suspended in air, over the crowd, it held up. When they tried to install it in one of the gallery walkways, it finally collapsed. Now all that remains is the leaf I signed at the top.

Let’s see. I’ve been creative since as far as I can remember. I’ll paint anything object to see how it turns out. I love trying new stuff, new media, new ideas.

In short: I grew up in California then NY and have spent time in the southwest, London, England and currently, Georgia. I did the extended college plan, finally switching from math and science to my first love, art. I went to Savannah College of Art and Design, to finish up my art schooling and it was one of the best experiences for me.

I’ve spent my years since college running my own business. I do any number of things from painting, graphics, illustration and anything else that seems like it might be fun. I’ve been lucky enough to meet and work with a few great people who have taught me the rewards of hard work and persistence. I’m happy enough to mix power tools with watercolors and computer chips. I try to help the ideas that come to me, find a good method of expression.

I’ve been lucky enough to get some print and web experience to complement my other art and craft work. I keep up my Adobe computer skills. I love learning new stuff and am currently working on my language skills; computer, Japanese and Spanish. I think learning keeps the mind fresh, so I’ll read avidly about anything that catches my interest. Currently, I’m paying a lot of attention to animation, science and technology. I also went back for a Masters in Art Education recently. I felt I needed to become more a part of my community and I really enjoy get students of all ages interested in art through art history or art creation.

You may contact the artist at sheala @ laughinglion . us