I am a self-taught painter but grew up under the influence of my grandfather Emile A. Gruppe, who was a noted New England landscape painter. In this sense art exposure was a foundational aspect of my upbringing. I took art classes in high school and as a undergraduate at the University of Vermont, but my studies were focused on science. I believe my background in natural sciences enhances my skills as an artist as both of these endeavors are rooted in the skill of observation. I kept up an art practice even when not working as a professional artist until I reached a point in my career where I was ready to switch my focus to artistic pursuits. I continue to learn and develop through dedicated practice as well as studying the work of other artists, reading, and attending occasional workshops lead by other local artists.
Primarily working in acrylics and watercolor, my paintings range from representational to conceptual with the common thread of exploring the interconnectedness of the natural world. I draw on over twenty years as a professional river ecologist as well as outdoor explorations to inspire my art. I capture Vermont’s natural splendor in impressionistic landscapes but also weave-in scientific understanding of ecological relationships using conceptual and abstract approaches. I paint in my home studio full-time. I sell original paintings as well as archival-quality print and card reproductions that I print and package myself. My cards and prints have a professional look using high quality archival papers, sturdy backers and clear plastic sleeves. I also sell assorted items printed with my designs such as stickers and notebooks printed by a third party.
I have been an artist all my life, but it was a professional side-gig for me for 23 years until December of 2022 when I made the leap to full-time painter. Switching to full-time has allowed me to further develop as an artist as well as grow my business through dedicated focus.
