biography
I was born in California and grew up in Lewiston, Idaho. I earned my B.A. in art with an emphasis in design from Lewis Clark State College. I continued to paint, but eventually was working at jobs that didn't leave much time for my creative energy. I pursued my interest in photography. I shot unusual angles and a myriad of subjects always searching for unique designs, thinking I would eventually paint the captured moments. As time passed and no paint or pencils produced artwork, I decided to turn towards my collection of photographs for inspiration. I did take two darkroom classes in college and attended two workshops and eventually started investing in more equipment.
Exhibiting at LCSC in 1984 sparked the combination of my black & white photos with colored pencils. In 1985 I moved from Lewiston to Spokane to work in the Display department at Nordstrom. I continued to shoot film and build an inventory of city architecture. In 1986 I was hired as a professional picture framer, which led to managing a framing gallery and supporting my art career. I again had a solo show at LCSC in 1988 with all manipulated photographs. This led to a solo show in 1989 at Spokane City Hall Chase Gallery and since then I have been participating in gallery shows and festivals full time.
1989 was indeed very good to me; I met my husband, Brent Hoogner. Although he works in a technical field, I keep him busy hauling artwork displays and assisting with installations. He tolerates my artistic adventures and is the "Hoo" at STuDio WaHoo. Our best collaborative effort is our daughter, Natalie. She has grown to be my finest admirer, an accomplished young adult and earned her graduate degree from Washington State University-Spokane and works as a Speech Language Pathologist at Mary Bridge pediatric developmental therapy clinic in Gig Harbor, Washington.
My current artwork includes a variety of subject matter and I push my images to be distinctive. The darkroom has been retired and I now exclusively manipulate digitally. I offer original digital creations as well as added enhancements with pencils and pastels onto the surface of the prints. I also offer photo-editing & restoration and I welcome commissions and home consultations. My images can be ordered as prints from 5” to 108” on traditional photo-papers, metallic paper, as giclee, on canvas, on acrylic, and aluminum. I have a full custom frame shop to prepare uniquely designed framing for my artwork. I also offer my artwork on fabric including scarves, and headbands. Call, text, e-mail me, or visit one of my representative galleries for that one-of-a-kind piece! 509.456.7240
Biography
