Connect What is your favorite type of art to create?

It is difficult for me to answer this question, other than offering this generalized answer, visual art. However, I will do my best to further define. Setting aside one answer: I have created several esthetic gardens over my lifetime, and have dearly loved doing this. I find it equally fulfilling to paint. I use the medium most suitable for what I want to express. Sometimes oil on canvas, watercolor on paper, acrylic for monoprints, and recently I have been investigating expanded field.

Where do you find inspiration?

I find inspiration from daily life, emotional depth and private contemplation in my garden. I also find walks in nature, visits to galleries and art museums feed into my desire to create. Sadly, I also draw from grief and dear loss. My first born son, also an artist, and my husband and dearest friend died of cancer within four years of each other. Painting and gardening soothe my broken heart and provide meaning to my reinvented life. Fortunately, I have a living son who champions me.

What would you do with $25,000?

I have always thought if I came into a windfall, I would give time and space prior to deciding what I would do with the money. In the event of winning this award, I would set aside “Uncle Sam’s” portion, then I would plant a tree in my garden to commemorate my good fortune. And finally, I would invest in my creative endeavors. I would very much enjoy learning from a visual artist whose work I admire and whose work resonates with me. This would require some research on my part.