I am an avid gardner and a gourmet cook. While living in Hell's Kitchen, NY I obtained a 5' x 8' plot at Clinton Community Gardens, an oasis in the Manhattan's urban jungle. Growing flowers in that plot and daily walks in Central Park provided inspiration for many of my paintings. Now living in Western MA, I maintain flower beds on my half acre of land, leaving the task of growing vegetable and raising chickens and livestock to the many small organic farmers in the area. I love to create impromptu meals and recipes using local farmers' produce. I considers the process of cooking similar to painting, as both activities use the five senses.