I came to art late in life. I had worked in the tech sector for the majority of my life and like many people, I thought I didn't have a creative bone in my body. As a Strategic Communications Program Manager, I did not see the PowerPoint presentations I did as "art." I thought creativity was limited to those unique individuals who could draw life-like images and sculpt beautiful works of art.

It wasn't until around the beginning of 2012 that I began to try my hand at making mobiles made out of scrap glass that was hand sanded and wire wrapped with semiprecious gemstones. Those mobiles were so well received I couldn't believe it. I was stunned! But I kept making them while working in the tech sector.

It wasn't until about 2012 that I began to explore what more I could do with these glass mobiles. One thing I did notice is that the pain from my disability receded to the back corner of my mind. It was there, but was also very far away as I worked on my mobiles. But in my heart, I still could not claim the title of "artist." It was too scary.

After retiring due to disability in 2013, I began selling my work at a local artisans market. Additionally, I started making coasters and drawings using the Zentangle method. Because of its popularity, I still didn't think that I could claim the identity of "artist." It also got very old very quickly.

It wasn't until about 2014 when, while having some sucess at my artisans market, I had an epiphany regarding the concept of "creativity." Creativity is not the sole purvue of those gifted in what is classically considered art. I realized that EVERYONE is creative in some way or another. I explain it to others this way: "If you've ever come up with a new, better, faster or unique way of solving a problem, that IS CREATIVITY!" We are ALL creative in some way. We as a society need to expand our conception of the meaning of creativity.

I have no formal training of any kind. YouTube has been my teacher. For the first time in years, I look forward to going to work! I get to play all day and create beautiful things that are all one of a kind and unique. So I haven't really retired, I have changed jobs. And now I work for the pure joy of creating something that is totally unique and draws people in to look, examine and make meaning of what they see. I am now an artist.