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My painting journey began around 22 years ago...
When not long after losing my husband; with my oldest son (Ryan) @ about 6 1/2 years old and expecting my youngest (Tyler), a dear family friend (Flo) talked me into taking a "tole" painting class, to help take my mind off my sorrows. It worked; I fell in love with painting...and it wasn't long before I was painting anything that stood still!
My love of painting soon led to teaching...and from teaching to publishing my original designs as decorative art instruction books, magazine articles and pattern packets; (which you can find on this site, or at your favorite art-craft store and/or some titles are available @Michael's, @JoAnn's and @Hobby Lobby.)
Designs / Publishing:
To date, I have had 18 design books published, 10 volumes in the Between the Vines series; 6 in the Christmastime Between the Vines series; 1 in the series "Seasons in Time". My largest book, "Painting Heartwarming Holidays", was published by North Light Books / F&W Publications, and released in March '06. My newest book, Christmastime 7 is due out Spring 2012.
I have produced 4 DVD's showcasing the techniques that I use when painting my designs and I have several combined-author books, including several published by the National Museum of Decorative Painting: "100 Angels";"The Book of Handpainted Quilts" and " Ornament Extravaganza". Other combined artists books I have had published include: Heartfelt Seasons and A Festive Collection (Easl and Viking Publications). I have been a regular contributor to painting magazines through the years and have published numerous individual designs, which you can find on this site. In 2005 , I took on the role as publisher/distributor of my own books. Between the Vines 8 was my first endeavor into complete self-publishing and distributing. Publishing is a challenging, yet satisfying experience, and I look forward to publishing more volumes in the future.
Travel Teaching:
Look for me at a couple of conventions each year, either teaching and/or exhibiting and/or at a few international locations, my schedule will be posted on this site.
Family & Friends...
Being widowed at a young age was a trial and I couldn't have made it without the love, support and guidance of the good Lord and my family and friends. I am blessed with 2 incredibly, wonderful sons: Ryan is now 29, and Tyler is 23. I am engaged to a fellow in this industry, Don of Valhalla Laser Designs, who has been so supportive and dear. In order for me to allow for more time to design, I hired my longtime friend, Flo, to help out in the office, filling the orders, answering the phone and e-mail - she is a wonderful asset and we enjoy traveling together.
"Art Saves"...
I believe it was learning to paint that helped me conquer my grief and channel it into something positive. My cares and concerns melted away when I picked up the brush and I was able to forget my woes for awhile. It is my heartfelt desire that as you paint my designs, you leave the cares and worries of life: Between the Vines...
xo, Jamie
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