Biography
Growing up in New Orleans, I was inspired by the artists in the French Quarter and dreamed of being an one too. I took group lessons for a few years in high school and even had the opportunity to paint in Jackson Square. Although time passed and life took a different direction, I never forgot that dream. After my husband passed away unexpectedly from alcoholism, I started painting again. My uncle, Aris Koutroulis, a successful artist in New York, became a new source of inspiration and encouragement. When he passed away on the same day I got my first award, I knew I had to keep painting and continue the Koutroulis legacy.
My favorite subject has always been people, and children in particular, but my paintings strive to capture more than just a likeness. I look for what is unique and try to reflect that very essence or emotion. My play of light against dark is a expression of what is hidden coming to light. In many ways, the paintings are a reflection of who I am.
I have been accepted into multiple juried exhibitions and have won several awards. I am an active member of Visual Arts Alliance in addition to serving on the board. First and foremost, though, I am a Child of God and through my art I seek to glorify Him.
Exhibitions:
2017 VAA, 11th Juried Invitational Exhibition, Silos at Sawyer Yards
2015 Louisiana Arts & Artists’ Guild 46th Annual River Road Show, Louisiana State Archives Gallery, Baton Rouge LA
2015 VAA, 8th Juried Membership Exhibition, 1600 Smith
2015 VAA, 7th Juried Membership Exhibition, Avis Frank Gallery
2013 VAA, 31st Juried Membership Exhibition, 1600 Smith
Awards:
2017 Visual Arts Alliance, Third Place, Juror Lester Marks
2015 Livingston Art League, Best of Show
2015 Visual Arts Alliance, Honorable Mention. Juror Chris Highman
2014 Tomball Art League, Best of Show
2013 Visual Arts Alliance, Honorable Mention, Juror Harwood Taylor
Collections:
Private Collections, New York, NY
Private Collection, Atlanta, GA
Private Collections, Houston, TX
Professional Affiliations:
VAA: Member-at Large (2018 – current), Chairman, Publicity + Community Relations (2014 – 2018)
Portrait Society of America
Oil Painters of America
Artists of Texas
LSAG: Exhibition Chair (2015 – 2016)
TAL: Exhibition Chair (2012 – 2016)