A few of Aunt Ann's paintings:
My skills are nowhere near the level of my aunt's. But, I guess it is safe to say I came by my love of art honestly. (I married into an artsy family, too, my father-in-law Craig Houston of White Tent Event does some amazing work). I love doing anything crafty, especially painting. It's the only time my mind can completely shut off and daydream (although my husband would argue this happens more frequently, and that I have a slight touch of ADD because I don't like to focus on tv shows or movies, which is evidenced by the constant DVR rewind and plot explanation). My first "big" art project was a father's day gift to my dad. And, my Aunt Ann helped me get it done the summer after my 5th grade year. It's a large painting of a Native American. Full headdress and all. I guess my dad and mom both liked it because it is still hanging in their living room today, 17 years later.
In college I painted coolers for "fun" money. I cannot tell you how many friends I helped out for their Greek mountain weekend getaways. It was easy money for me, and I loved doing it! I wish painted coolers were still "cool" among my grown-up friends. Sure would be nice to make some extra cash. Ho hum.
After college, I didn't paint for a long time (this thing called law school.. not a whole lot of time for much else, although I did manage to still eat and sleep, occasionally). After the bar exam, I had 3 months to do nothing but wait on results. So, I picked up my paint brush again. Here's a recap of the last year and a half. The Bodie Houston Gallery on rewind (and it's easy to see where my roots are... SC... the south... the low country... coastal everything... how I love thee) :
Landscape
Collegiate
Kids
