Meet Our Artists

Shirley Bell , Jamestown, RI. Shirley’s artwork is inspired by her natural surroundings. Despite a spinal cord injury suffered 32 years ago, Shirley launched her own company in 2006 called Shirley Bell Designs. She enjoys being a busy artist, and keeping up with the growing demand for her art, giclees, and gift items. Shirley’s originals can be seen in galleries and gift shops through out the country.

Romona Bendin Ramona Bendin, Carolina Shores, NC. Ramona has been painting for over 50 years. She has worked in oils, pastels, watercolor and tempera. She is the daughter of cartoonist Ben Batsford who inked the 1920s comic strip, Little Annie. Ramona has continued to explore artistic concepts with other artists, and at 84 years of age, she still conducts classes out of her home studio. She has been awarded many honors, including several Awards of Excellence and Best in Show honors.

Jeanne Bonine , Scottsdale, AZ. Jeanne is a self-taught artist known for her soft and lush larger-than-life floral paintings. In 1994, after being treated for Stage III breast cancer, Jeanne began to write prose and poetry. Since then, the art of inspiring has become the essence of Jeanne’s paintings and writings. Her watercolor images can be found in galleries and collections around the world.

Wendy Brockman. Wendy is a self-taught watercolor artist who has been widely exhibited throughout the United States and England. She attributes her development as a detailed observer to a childhood spent in the rural Midwest. Despite a history of Epilepsy, Wendy has created an impressive and extensive portfolio of work, which explores her interest in both art and science. She has received numerous awards and her paintings are in the permanent collections of the Brooklyn Botanical Garden and The Hunt Institute for Botanical Documentation.

Karol Brown, Colorado Springs, CO. Karol became an artist after challenging herself during a game of Pictionary with her family nearly 12 years ago. She attended a few painting classes that helped develop her talent. Karol has become a diversified watercolor artist painting landscapes, still life, flowers and southwest scenes. She now has artwork displayed in galleries throughout the world. ”I feel blessed that I found the gift of painting. It is the passion for art that has brought me great joy!“

Betty Caithness, Betty enjoys the medium of folk art, as it “allows one the freedom to break the rules. Snow scenes are a favorite because a fresh blanket of snow is peaceful and quieting to the soul.” Painting enables Betty to express her creativity and imagination. Teaching and publishing gives her the opportunity to share her love of art. She was honored to represent Virginia as their state artist at the annual White House Easter Egg Gala and to have her artwork on display at the White House.

Carolyn Cardle, Edina, MN. Carolyn has always loved to paint, taking a brush and paints with her wherever she goes. Her artistic inspiration comes from her passion to “portray the real meaning of the first Christmas, that glorious, hope-filled event when God sent a Savior for the world.“ Carolyn has seven grandchildren who she loves to weave into her illustrations, hoping to capture the innocence of children and create something that brings joy to others. Carolyn dedicates this card to Joyce Vincent, founder of Courage Cards who has severe rheumatoid arthritis. “Joyce's positive and joyful spirit has touched my life and I am most grateful. Thank you, Joyce!“

Kate Chodor, Bronxville, NY. Kate Chodor is a native New Yorker who lives and works in Manhattan and spends her summers painting in upstate New York and New England. She has been an artist all her life, but found true expression in watercolor while recovering from a car accident. In, 1996, Kate gleefully left the corporate world and decided to pursue the business of art full time. After years of creating personally hand painted cards, Kate began licensing her artwork for reproduction.

Persis Clayton Weirs, Penobscot Bay, Maine. Growing up on an island off the Maine coast, Persis developed her artistic skills through close observation of the animals and wildlife that surrounded her home. At 23, she began to paint horses and pet portraits. In the early 80's she turned to wildlife art and began exhibiting in art shows and galleries across the country. "If my paintings can pass on just a fraction of the pleasure I find in nature, then I have succeeded."

Lily Cleveland, Duxbury, MA. Lily Cleveland has been painting for over 15 years and her passion for art continues to grow. Watercolor is her method of expression with a focus on landscape and figures, but her imagery sometimes departs from the realistic and is more abstract. She attended Boston University where she graduated with a B.A. cum laude. Afterwards, she studied painting and design at Massachusetts College of Art In Boston. Today, she continues her formal art studies, participates in art shows and enjoys teaching painting. “I love to paint – pure and simple!”

Jeanine Crowe, Jordan, MN. Jeanine has been painting with watercolors and oils since her high school days. She prefers the medium of watercolor for its portability and element of surprise. “The spontaneity of watercolors provides adventurous fun. It’s like a riding a roller coaster. I like the thrill of it!” For Jeanine, painting is also a place to find peace & relief from chronic pain. “All of life is artistic to me. It is everywhere, in everything and everyone.”

Louise Cunningham, Fife, Scotland, UK. Louise is a Freelance Illustrator and enjoys the freedom and creativity her profession allows in her daily life. She is very pleased to have been selected as a Courage Card artist. She states, “For me, it is a chance to bring joy into the lives of others. My images are always bold and colorful and I hope they make others happy to look at them.” Louise received an Illustration Degree and Diploma of Art from Edinburgh College and has participated in Artist Residency in Scottish Primary Schools.

Elaine Dube, Mesa, AZ. Art in some form has always been a large part of Elaine’s life. For many years, she taught ballet and aerobics. Now, watercolor is her main art passion and although she is mostly self-taught, she spends time teaching classes and workshops. Elaine enjoys the challenge of capturing the color and light to create the mood that makes her city scenes come alive with activity. “Painting means experiencing color, spreading cheer and giving to others. I love to paint and share this gift.”

Vickey Enright, Andover, MA. Vicky has worked as a graphic designer, a calligrapher, a wallpaper designer, a greeting card artist, and a children’s book illustrator. Whether it is a logo, a children’s book or a greeting card, Vicky tries to cause the viewer to pause and look for a moment longer, to see some beauty, or at least to smile.

Andrew Eveansen Andrew Evansen, Vermillion, MN. Andy began painting watercolors in the mid 1990’s, and is largely self-taught. "I strive for a convincing portrayal of the landscape, with an impressionistic touch." Andy recently won an international competition for his artwork, and he has a featured article in American Artist’s Watercolor magazine.

Lisa Fertig, Arden Hills, MN. Lisa works in watercolor, acrylics and oils and paints in two distinct styles, abstract and representational. Lisa’s artwork is held by numerous private collections, businesses and corporations and is shown in galleries throughout Minnesota. “My art affirms my belief in the oneness of body, mind and the world in which we live.”

Susan Fink , St. Louis Park, MN. Always a lover of the outdoors, Susan expresses her appreciation of nature through her watercolor painting. Prior to her spinal chord injury nine years ago, Susan enjoyed participating in outdoor recreation with her family and friends. Today, she enjoys connecting with nature through her watercolor paintings. "Art reminds me that there are things you can’t control, and sometimes it’s the surprises that give the most pleasure."

Elaine Fredrickson, Stillwater, MN. Elaine has been painting with watercolor for over 30 years. Her technique of using dynamic brush strokes and captivating color results in interesting surprises that capture and hold the viewer’s attention. Elaine has shown her works in many exhibits around the country and has won numerous awards. “Painting is my passion. It motivates my soul.”

Janis Gallagher Young, Pequot Lakes, MN. Janis discovered her love for drawing and painting at an early age and remains primarily self-taught. Her style is realistic with a blend of vivid color and detail. Janis has a lower back condition, diagnosed as lumbar spinal stenosis. This condition limits her ability to walk and she manages her health with exercise and therapy. Janis is extremely thankful for her artistic talent and she enjoys sharing her art with others. “Art has provided me with endless hours of enjoyment through creativity and personal expression. I couldn’t imagine my life without it!”

Judy Gibson courtesy of Arts Uniq, Inc. Judy loves art and has painted animals during her early childhood growing up in Texas. She still loves painting horses and other images of ranch life. Judy studied art at East Texas University and made a career in art by painting for an art company. For nineteen years her paintings were sold in galleries throughout the southwest. “When a person looks at my paintings, I want them to see the deep appreciation for God's creations. “

Kathy Glasnap, Fish Creek, WI. Peaceful serenity captures the mood and tone of many of Kathy’s watercolors. Her unique style of painting combines a traditional form with an impressionistic flair. Kathy is self-taught and has enjoyed a career as a professional artist for over 34 years. “My palette has become more colorful since I moved to Door County”, states Kathy who appreciates living amidst the natural beauty that has so influenced her work.

Roger Hardy, Sainte-Foy, Quebec, Canada. Roger began his artistic journey in woodcarving. In 1988, Roger experienced post-polio syndrome. It was then when he discovered his great passion for painting. Painting has become his medium of self-expression and accomplishment ever since. Rogers’s paintings predominantly capture the magic of landscapes and are inspired by the natural beauty of the earth throughout the seasons. Roger does not attempt to reproduce what he sees exactly, but prefers to capture an atmosphere, an emotion or a particular moment.

Patty Heibel, Menomonee, WI. Patty Heibel’s goal is to share with others the enjoyment of seeing a calming beauty in our natural surroundings. Her artwork has a bold sense of design and she is drawn to strong composition & intense color. Patty began her artistic journey with photography during her high school years. Through the years she experimented with painting on photographic images. She paints in both the mediums of acrylic and oil. “Before beginning any piece, I take a moment to realize exactly what it is about the subject that initially caught my eye or stirred my emotion. Only then do I decide how to fill the canvas and bring it to life in my unique way.”

LouAnn Hoppe, White Bear Lake, MN. LouAnn began painting only a few years ago when she and a friend decided to take art lessons, just for fun. LouAnn finds art very rewarding. She has been a teacher for over 40 years and LouAnn believes teaching is also an art! Fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis cause muscle and joint pain daily and restrict her activities. “I love making beautiful things that are appreciated by others!”

Mary Beth Harvey, Pottsville, PA. Mary Beth has been painting for over 20 years as a hobby. She finds it to be a relaxing escape. Mary Beth hopes that when she retires from her full time job of managing her husband’s podiatry office, she will have more time to pursue her love of watercolor painting. “It is an activity that you can continue all your life. There is no age limit.” Mary Beth has received the American Diabetes Award and the Berks Art Alliance Purchase Award.

Thomas Hinde, Keene, TX. Almost 20 years ago, when his disability forced him to retire, Thomas Hinde decided to give painting a try. Multiple Sclerosis has left Thomas a quadriplegic and it is with the assistance of his wife Beverly that he paints, holding the brush in his mouth. His artwork has been part of several national exhibits. Thomas says, “The feeling of satisfaction that I can still do something creative and to motivate others is what I like most about being an artist”.

K. Renee Huggins, Enid, OK. Renee has been a Courage Card artist for over 20 years. In addition to her artistic endeavors, she is also a Public Fire and Life Safety Educator. Renee along with her service dog, Willow, teach firefighters rescue procedures despite her physical challenges. The training of service dogs has become a real passion in Renee’s life. “My disabilities don’t define me. I define myself by my abilities. Through my art, I hope to instill the concept that one can achieve goals in spite of obstacles.”

Linda Hutchinson, Kent, OH. Linda explores her artistic interests in drawing, watercolors and oils. Her favorite subject is the human figure, but nature and everyday life never cease to amaze and enchant her. "Painting is everything to me. It is both calming and elevating." Linda appreciates the encouragement & celebration she finds in the artistic community.

Zhe-Zhou Jiang, Philadelphia, PA. As a young child in China, Zhe-Zhou’s mother began teaching him painting and calligraphy. He graduated from Beijing College for the Arts and Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine arts after his move to the United States. Zhe- Zhou is a full time artist and art teacher, as well as a writer with a number of published novels. “Art talks to me about history and future, old generations and new generations.” Zhe-Zhou has received many honors and awards including a one-man show at the Philip Bersman Museum to showcase his 50 years in art.

Carolyn Karasek, Waterloo, IL. Carolyn’s art is inspired by universal themes of everyday life, folk art and a reverence for childhood passions. Her work has been in numerous shows throughout the Midwest. In addition to her illustration, she enjoys textile art, creating unique works of felt and painted silk. About her art she says, “I believe that folk art speaks to everyone. They remind us of who we are, where we have come from and where we might be going. I am proud to be a voice in the telling.”

Susan Kennedy, Rochester, MN. Susan’s childhood dream was to become an artist and teacher. She lives her dream not only through her work as a Graphic Design Assistant, but by teaching young children art techniques in her home. Susan began painting seriously in the 1980’s to help ease both physical and mental pain due to osteoporosis and multiple compression fractures to her spine. She has had a number of juried shows in both Minnesota and Montana, where she grew up on a wheat farm. Susan is a member of the Minnesota Watercolor Society.

Jasmine Keppers, River Falls, WI. Jasmine’s interest in art began early in elementary school. She feels art is a great way to express her thoughts and dreams.

Lavona Keskey, Plymouth, MN. Lavona’s interest in art began as a young child with encouragement from her mother, and later evolved into her profession. As an award winning cake decorator, Lavona is best known for her portraits and scenes on cakes using airbrush painting and elaborate frosting techniques. Her many artistic interests also include figure sculpture, watercolor and oil painting.

Patricia King Patricia J. King, Waukegan, IL. Patricia first began painting as a child. Her father was an artist and she always knew that she would be an artist too. She took many art classes in college and received her Bachelor of Arts in Education with a minor in Art from Northern Illinois University. Today, she enjoys teaching art to young students while also participating in summer art shows in the Chicago area. Patricia has arthritis in her hands and wrists, which limits her painting time. To Patricia, painting is a connection with nature. “It is my joy to express the beauty in our world!“

Susan Kinney, Great Falls, MT. Susan is a self taught artist who has learned many digital art software programs. Due to her physical challenges, a computer has allowed Susan to pursue her many artistic endeavors from painting, graphic illustration, restoration work, and photo manipulation. “Art is my passion. It is important to learn new tools & techniques, but the most important tool comes from with in you. You need to listen to your heart and paint what you feel.”

Christine Kintner, Warren, PA. Even as a young child, Christine was interested in art and loved the look and process of watercolors. Coping with cancer and the loss of one arm and mobility issues in both legs has not deterred Christine’s pursuit of her artistic dreams. Christine especially appreciates meeting other artists and learning from their inspirations and ideas. “I have made many great friends along the way in my journey with art.” She enjoys gardening, bird watching and the beauty of our natural world.

Dianne Kremer, Cottage Grove, MN. “Art is my therapy, my escape and my source of satisfaction.” When she is not painting, she enjoys home decorating, gardening and most of all, spending time with her grandchildren. Dianne has myasthenia gravis, a neuro-muscular disease. Painting is her greatest joy.

Douglas Laird, courtesy of Mountain Rendezvous Publishing LTD, Ontario, Canada. Douglas was interested in art at an early age and studied art throughout his school years. His extensive travels in North America and Europe have influenced the subject and medium of his art. Douglas enjoys painting landscape, children and everyday activities.

Maris Langell Maria Langell, Albany, NY. Maria was born in Budapest, Hungary. Her love of art began at a very early age. She always dreamed of becoming a professional artist and that dream came true in the United States. Maria studied illustration in New York City, and made her career in fashion illustration as a layout artist for newspaper advertising. Today, she is a free-lance artist and enjoys the freedom of creating images that have a contemporary look. Maria likes expressing her feelings with art. “I want to express the hope that the holidays bring joy and peace to all!“

Sharon Larsen, Encinitas, CA. Sharon began her journey into the art world while working for a commercial artist as an assistant. She eventually went off on her own to pursue her own artistic interests in painting and graphic art. Sharon’s interpretation of her Courage Card artwork is “it gives me hope that our world will have peace one day”. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening and working with dogs & cats at an animal shelter.

Amy Larson, Park Rapids, MN. Amy received her Bachelors Degree in Art Education at Illinois State University. She moved to the Twin Cities where she and her husband raised their four children. During that time, Amy taught art around the metro area and also showed her work at many art fairs and galleries. Today, Amy continues to paint watercolors of the beautiful lakes of Minnesota.

Kairong Liu was born in China and came to the United States when he was twenty-three years old. He received his M.F.A. degree from the University of South Dakota. Since then, his art has been in many shows and collections throughout the Midwest. Kairong says beauty can be found in the most unexpected places and he tries to reveal that in his work. “My paintings are my feelings and appreciation of what I see. I like to paint things that are very ordinary but beautiful in an artistic way.”

Christine Lorenz-Meany, Southern Pines, NC. Christine is a mother of three young girls and a self-taught illustrator. Her father, an accomplished artist, inspired her love of the arts. Her family encouraged her to dream that anything is possible. Christine says, “The Peace Tree is a reminder of our need to maintain peace in our country, peace in our homes and peace in our lives.”

Edward Lupper, Cathedral City, CA. Freshness and innocence combined with limitless imagination create a special Utopia in Edward Lupper’s enchanting animal paintings. Edward’s self-taught art technique is complex and time consuming. Degenerative disc disease also limits the time Edward can spend at the easel painting his large elaborate works. He says, “A sense of humor will help you survive any obstacles life puts in your path. My work is always there to cheer you.”

Cindy Markowski, Wausau, WI. Cindy began painting when she was 15 years old. She has always had a tremendous interest in painting and a desire to grow as an artist. This inner drive allowed her to stay active in art by teaching and participating in a few art shows every year while raising her family. In 1982, she opened her own gallery where she continues to paint and share her art with others. “I love the happiness that I see in others when I share my art.“ Cindy dedicates this card to her son, Travers, who had Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome, a blood vessel disorder.

Rita MacDonald, Stillwater, MN. Rita describes herself as a paintaholic. “I have an inner need to ‘do art’. Painting brings a joy that cannot be obtained any other way. I love the beauty of winter trees & snowfalls. They evoke feelings of peace & quiet.” Rita has participated in many local art shows, exhibited at the Minnesota State Fair and won numerous awards.

Carolyn McBride, Kerrville, TX. Carolyn McBride began painting at the age of 12 and the magic of color & line is a continued fascination for her. Along with art shows, book cover designs and illustration, she often teaches workshops. “When painting, I disregard restraints and become an avid risk taker- pushing limits with color and shape to discover new results. I love to use nature as an inspiration, but to infuse it with my own imagination. Art is my great flamboyance.”

Ruth Jensen McGrath, Sauk Rapids, MN. Ruth started painting in 2003. What started as a hobby quickly became commission work to include watercolor portraits, acrylic decorator pieces, mixed media collages and even a magazine cover. She is a member of Central Minnesota Watercolorists, Visual Arts Minnesota and Artists of Minnesota. She paints full time in her studio in Sauk Rapids, Minnesota.

Dorsey McHugh, Nashville, TN. Home & hearth are at the heart of Dorsey’s work. “Love in every culture manifests itself in a simple, easy to observe way. The love of family, friends and the sanctuary of home.” Dorsey believes “complimentary colors are restful to the eye. Nature mixes complementary colors.” Dorsey’s longing for a harmonious world is reflected in her paintings with colors of joyous yellows, blues, reds and greens. Her artwork offers a refuge of peace, calm and love between man and nature.

George Mendoza, New Mexico. George Mendoza is an author, athlete, artist and motivational speaker. New Mexico’s Governor, Bill Richardson declared Mendoza a “state treasure”. Despite the early onset of blindness from macular degeneration as a teen, George Mendoza has gone on to live an exceptionally accomplished life. He has touched millions of lives through his rigorous gallery show career and numerous motivational speeches. George has also written three inspirational books: A Vision of Courage, The Spirit Man Trilogy and Cup of All Things Good.

James Meger, Minnesota. James cannot remember a time in his life that he didn’t want to be an artist. After a tour of duty in Vietnam and a teaching career, he still dreamed of becoming a professional artist. In 1980, after only six weeks of becoming a full time artist, he won the Minnesota State Duck Stamp competition. James continues to win national awards for his art and has been the "Pheasants Forever" Artist of the Year for six years. James believes he is the luckiest man alive because he is living his dream.

Cindy Merritt, Greensburg, KY. Cindy considers herself a self-taught artist. She states, “the creativity and the pride the work brings” is what she loves about being an artist. “I pray my art inspires others to just keep going – one line, one stroke, one step at a time.” Cindy states her hypertension is alleviated significantly while creating and painting. She enjoys working on her computer, playing scrabble and spending time with her three sons and one granddaughter.

Ron Merchant, Minneapolis, MN. Art is Ron’s third career in a journey of being a life long student. Artistically Ron specializes in figurative landscapes and plein air landscapes. “Painting helps me share my view of the world. I search for the connections between people and our environment whether man-made or natural,” states Ron. “The Nicollet Mall is a bright & lively place where a diversity of people can share a sunny winter day.” Ron has won numerous awards, teaches extensively and is a member of many arts organizations.

Alicia Newman, Neskowin, OR. Alicia has pursued her interest in art through her career as an interior designer and her personal artistic creativity. For many years, Alicia has coped with osteoarthritis in her artistic pursuits and she would like to dedicate her artwork “to all those painters who have no use of their hands.” She likes the quietness and intense concentration in creating art. “Art is an inner journey – a working mediation that allows connection to one’s soul.”

Kathy Oravecz, Thompson, OH. Kathy discovered the world of art in second grade and has painted with watercolors for over 20 years. She teaches art at both the high school and college level and is a published author. Kathy believes that art evolves from nature and should be created to inspire and to elevate the ideals of humanity. She has participated in many exhibitions and has received numerous awards, including being selected as a National Easter Seal Society artist three times.

Sal Panasci, Devon PA. Sal began his art career in New York City in advertising. Over a 25-year career, his work has been well respected and highly recognized. In 1995, his life changed dramatically when he was a passenger in a taxi accident that resulted in him being diagnosed with a mild traumatic brain injury. During his rehabilitation, he was encouraged to paint in watercolor, which was new to him. Since then, his paintings have been accepted in numerous juried exhibitions and he has received local and national awards. ”My goal is to be the best that I can be each day.“

Nancy Patrick Carney, Minneapolis, MN. Nancy has been making pictures as early as she can remember. She graduated from Miami University in Ohio with a degree in Art Education and taught elementary art. During the time when she was raising her family, she worked as a free-lance artist and did design, illustration and advertising. Today, she enjoys pen and ink illustrations of houses, woodcut prints and watercolor painting. Nancy says, "Experimenting with every art material I can find in my home, studio and yard is my idea of a good time!"

Pam Peltier, Detroit, ME. Pam has been illustrating for over 30 years and enjoys creating art of all kinds including masks, jewelry and fine art. When not creating Pam enjoys dancing, hiking and especially spending time with her grandchildren. Pam has been profoundly deaf since she was one year old. She says, “Creating art is like music to my ears and makes my heart sing!”

Jan Prentice, Branford, CT. As a child, Jan loved to draw and paint but went on to study economics and finance. She studied art at a variety of art schools while she pursued a business career. Five years after a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, she retired from business to become a full time professional artist. In 2005, Jan earned a certificate of botanical illustration from the New York Botanical Garden.

Lisa Raven, Bangor, ME. Lisa began her artistic journey at a very young age and with her parents help, discovered she had a natural artistic talent. She pursued her interest in art and eventually became an art therapist. “Art affects everything I do. The way I see and express myself. It is nice being a part of a group of people who speak the same language.” Lisa feels her artwork is very serene and calming.

Thomas Rebek, Boston, MA. Thomas displays his love for cityscapes in his warm watercolors, sensitively depicting each scene. “Watercolor painting inspires me to explore color and form in a fresh way.“ When he paints, Thomas takes frequent breaks because scoliosis makes standing for long periods of time challenging. “My art reflects the human celebratory events of the city. I hope I convey each scene with a sense of allure, charm and fascination.“ Thomas would like to dedicate this card to his cousin, Donna Rebek, who lived for many years with myasthenia gravis, an autoimmune neuromuscular disease.

Barbara Rhoadamer, Martinsville, IN. Barbara first began painting with watercolor in her elementary school in Poland. Since then, painting has been her favorite hobby. She enjoys participating in summer art shows where she sells her paintings, cards and prints. Barbara says that she loves art because it unites people in a common experience. “Painting allows me to express my imagination. It gives me a state of peace.”

David Riebe graduated from the Minneapolis School of Art with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree and pursued a business career in creative advertising. During his illustrious career as a watercolor artist, Dave shared many of his beautifully detailed paintings with Courage Cards. Courage Cards is most grateful to Dave and his family for his generous spirit that continues to shine through his artwork.

Deborah Ronglien, Eden Prairie, MN. Deborah is a professional artist who paints in several styles from realism to abstraction. Despite a congenital and often painful degenerative disease of the spine Deborah continues her artistic work with the help from a modified art studio. “Painting is a spiritual experience where a partnership is created between an inspiration from within and classical design & composition.” Her paintings express qualities of serenity, balance and beauty.

Jane Rosenberg, New York, NY. As a plein air artist, Jane’s artistic focus is on capturing the magic & energy of New York City. Well known for her courtroom artwork that has documented many famous trials, Jane is always working with speed to capture a moment in time. “It’s important to remain focused. Light is fleeting, nature is ever changing and weather can be unforgiving. This vibrant city provides a never ending supply of exciting subject matter to paint,” states Jane.

Linda Rupard, Big Spring, TX. “I like the quiet, spiritual feeling of this painting”, states Linda. Her philosophy of art is to be free to paint what she wants to see – the color, shape or form. Art offers a wonderful life for Linda, who enjoys gathering new artistic ideas from her travels, visiting art galleries and antiquing. She enjoys painting “to share with others, to bring a bit of joy, to brighten a day”.

Siddhartha Sankar Sukla, Orissa, India. Siddhartha’s interest in art started in childhood and has now evolved into a career as a 3D character-texturing artist. He has participated in many juried art show and received prestigious awards in both the United States and India. Siddhartha, who has been hearing impaired from birth, attributes his successes and confidence to his parents’ encouragement. He enjoys working with his brother, Sriharsha who is also a Courage Card artist.

Barb Schonberg. Barb enjoys the freedom of being a free-lance artist. She is interested in form and color, as well as the use of different styles and mediums. As a cancer survivor, Barb has learned to appreciate each and every day. "Art allows me to share the joy and beauty of the world around us."

Loretta Seitz began taking watercolor classes after a rewarding career in health care management. Loretta loved art for it’s ultimate form of self-expression. It awakened in her the incredible beauty that can be interpreted in paintings to be shared with others. Loretta’s artwork can be found in many private collections and she donated artwork for specific health related causes. Courage Cards is grateful to Loretta and her family for sharing her artistic talents to help support Courage Center.

Gail Speckmann, Plymouth, MN. Gail Speckmann is a national award-winning watercolor artist, instructor, judge and author. Her book, Wet into Wet Watercolor, is considered one of the most definitive instructions of this challenging technique. Gail has conducted classes throughout North America and several European countries. She is most recognized for her wet-into wet technique, strong color and composition. “The pursuit of painting will never reach the end of intrigue for me. Creating is an unending joy.”

Kay Smith, Big Spring, TX. Kay began her study of watercolor at age 40. She enjoys the challenge of watercolor and being able to evoke emotions of happiness in her viewers. Kay has had scoliosis since 1970. As a result, she paints while standing and uses long handled brushes to minimize back and leg strain. She says, “Of all the birds, penguins are the most courageous, as they brave insurmountable odds to survive. The birds never admit defeat while marching in their dapper tuxedos.” Kay wishes to dedicate this card to her friend, Ms. Gwen Morton who is an occupational therapist and has cerebral palsy. “Gwen has helped thousands of our nation’s war veterans and is an inspiration to me.”

Leo Stans, Belle Plain, MN. Leo began his artistic journey painting wildlife art, as a hobby. Eventually, he decided to make a break from a career in insurance and paint full time. In his search to find new subjects to paint, he became known for his golf paintings. He created twenty-three paintings known as “Best of Minnesota”golf collection. Leo’s next artistic expression found him painting historical buildings in downtown Minneapolis & St. Paul. Leo’s goal “is to recreate scenes from a bygone era that are rich with color and nostalgia. I am always striving to improve and create better work.”

Carol Stott. Carol considers herself a self-taught watercolorist. She loves the challenge and continual learning process of creating art. "I feel good if my art sparks an emotion, a memory or causes someone to pause for a moment." This painting "recalls memories of winter fun and Christmas holidays". Carol is a freelance illustrator who enjoys reading, gardening and traveling with her husband.

Bob Straube's creative career covered more than 50 years. His talent for art was first recognized during grade school. His passion for art and business later evolved into a long career in advertising and marketing. Bob was a prolific painter who enjoyed oils, watercolors and acrylics. He even worked in stained glass and ran his own pottery studio. Courage Cards is very grateful to Bob and his family for all the wonderful artwork he shared throughout the years.

Hal Sutherland , Botthell, WA. “A smile is a precious gift of joy!“ From Depression baby in Somerville, Massachusetts to Emmy award winner in Hollywood to acclaimed painter, Hal Sutherland's life is a tale of overcoming countless barriers to achieve his dream. He attributes his success to his unbeatable optimism, humor and unbridled passion for life. For his art, Hal has developed his own special color palette because he is colorblind. He paints “very carefully“ and he claims that he asks his dog for final approval before his paintings are complete. “It's a wonderful sensation as an artist to paint a bit of sunlight into the shadows of someone's dreams.“

Mary Teichman, Northampton, MA. Mary began painting in high school and studied art at the Cooper Union School of Art in NYC. Her artwork has been featured in exhibits, museum collections and galleries nationwide. Mary finds her motivation in the quiet moments of art, when she has wrestled with an artistic problem and solved it. "Once you've had that feeling it's like an addiction. You've been bitten by the creative bug!"

Diana Thomas. Diana developed her artist talents through the encouragement of her father. She went to the Art Institute of Pittsburgh and has been involved with art ever since. Besides her art, Diana keeps busy doing family activities with her husband, children and grandchildren. She enjoys art because "Painting and drawing give me a way to capture a moment or and idea to share with others. It is a good outlet to express my love of fine detail."

Rondal Thompson, Golden Valley, MN. Rondal began painting professionally when he was hired at an art studio just out of art school and has been painting ever since. Now retired from a career in advertising, he has more time to pursue his artistic hobby. Away from his easel, Rondal enjoys traveling, woodworking, photography and gardening.

DiAnne Tracey DiAnne Tracy, Loudonville, NY. “Art is my life and my passion. It is a healing process for me because it makes me feel so alive.” Award-winning artist DiAnne Tracy has been painting with watercolor for nearly fifteen years. She wears a wrist brace while she paints to ease the pain of her arthritis. “I am very pleased with being chosen as a Courage Card Art Search winner. I hope that it encourages someone else with arthritis or any disability to paint or to do what they enjoy.”

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