THE ARTIST’S JOURNEY

First figure drawing - ink scribbles from a young Jean Campbell
“I’m going to be an artist.”
— My persistent answer when asked what i would be when I grew up

At right: Early figure drawing found in an old reader

Mesmerization with light and desire to create art are two intense feelings that stand out to this day while so much else has faded away. 

My artistic intention lingered throughout my growing years, and art class was always my favorite activity in school. I was always keenly interested in wildlife, and it found its way into much of my art. As a student at the University of Montevallo, I chose art as my major and received a Bachelor of Fine Arts with a concentration in painting.

While there, I received an Excellence in Studio Art award for painting in my senior year and was selected for inclusion in the Honors Art show.

My adult life took various turns as I raised two daughters and moved through several career shifts. Each new professional endeavor gave me opportunities to learn, but I always kept a toe in the arts. Now, sixty years after my initial creative intention began, I have retired from my 9-5. It feels like I have finally shown up for work.

  • Groucho!

  • The Flower Faries - copies of Cecily Mary Barker

  • Gifts of the Garden

  • Blades in Morning Light

  • Feed Me

  • Gila with the Golden Eyes

  • Hibiscus - I miss you summer

I have gained other interests along the way: sustainable gardening, the natural world, the joy of children, and our connection with all life around us. These themes find their way to my canvas, paper, or project.

I attempt to make stand still, the ethereal moments where the ordinary feels extraordinary. It is then that the sense of their relevance and our stewardship of this planet takes hold.