Meet the Artist

A graduate of William Carey College, with a degree in Fine Art and Graphic Design, Rebecca has worked as a graphic designer, an illustrator, a creative director, and as a registered nurse before returning to art full time. She currently paints in acrylics, and licenses her art on home goods, gifts and accessories.

The coastal area where Rebecca lives was "ground zero" when Hurricane Katrina devastated the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Eight years later, the area is still rebuilding, but she says, "The people who live here are resilient people who have weathered many storms, yet still love life and love to laugh. I hope I can play a small part in that outlook by painting subjects that make people smile. As a former nurse, I feel that laughter is the best medicine of all!"

Most of Rebecca's work is lighthearted, often revealing stories. "I am fascinated by offbeat characters and ordinary everyday people-their expressions, beliefs, quirky eccentric habits and their relationships with their pets and each other." But Rebecca doesn't only focus on people to tell stories, she depicts the life of our furry friends as well. "I find animals, especially dog and cats, to be wonderfully expressive subjects; their own little everyday agendas are pretty interesting, as well." In true Southern fashion, Rebecca addresses body image in her work, with a humorous approach. "The human figure is one of my favorite subjects, and in my paintings no one is self-conscious of their body-they have made peace with it and are just carrying on with life. After all, there are much more important things with which to concern themselves."

Vivid and fun, Rebecca's pieces are brightly colored! Her use of color brings a sense of balance and harmony to her work, which creates a feeling of comfort. "For me, lots of color uplifts me and adds to the happy feeling I want for my subjects. I have tried to be subtle, but I keep getting brighter!" As much as color enhances the mood of a painting, so does the underlying emotional tones. Humor is Rebecca's biggest component when it comes to tone. "I feel that we are bombarded with so much sadness, stress and darkness, I don't wish to go there in my art."

Rebecca is strongly influenced by where she lives. "Being a southerner, we appreciate family, bless each other's hearts and help out when needed. I love southern expressions, mannerisms and sayings. People here love a good time, food is very important, and we celebrate the gulf and all its bounty and recreational opportunities. I am influenced by the laid-back lifestyle here and inspired by the strong spirit of the people who survive major catastrophes, such as hurricanes and oil spills, rebuild, reinvent themselves and help one another, all while keeping a positive attitude-there is true joie de vivre!"