Although I was unaware of my true sexual orientation for most of my life, I always felt a sense of differentness. From early childhood, my drawings, paintings, appliqués, and other art often conveyed a sense of separation, and a longing for connection.

When I finally realized and accepted that I was a lesbian at 75, the barriers and the separations in my art disappeared. Now my artwork explores “coming out,” celebrates diversity, offers ways to deal with life’s challenges, and affirms how we all are more alike than we are different.

I have always used humor to convey some of my most serious messages. Now my art conveys happiness and a sense of connection as well. The positive changes in focus and in mood are very evident when comparing the Before Awareness painting, Too Chicken, with the five After Awareness paintings, the In Celebration group of paintings, and the Good Fortunes assemblage.