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"With brush in hand, my mind empties of it's sorrows and the beauty in life smiles."
~ Priscilla Hauser
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My painting journey began around 20 years ago...
Not long after losing my husband; with my oldest son @ 6 years old and expecting my youngest, a dear 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 and pattern packets, which you can find on this site, or at your favorite art/craft store/studio.
To date, I have published 16 books: 9 volumes in the Between the Vines series, 6 in the Christmastime Between the Vines series, 1 through North Light Books and several combined-author books: "The Book of Handpainted Quilts & Other Home Accessories" and " The Ornament Book" through the DAC; Heartfelt Seasons and A Festive Collection; numerous pattern packets, shown here on the site.
The book, "Painting Heartwarming Holidays", by North Light Books, was released in March '06. "Between the Vines 10" is slated for release in Summer 2010.. Between the Vines 8 was my first endeavor into complete self-publishing and distributing. Publishing was (is!) a challenging yet satisfying experience, and I look forward to publishing more volumes in the future.
I am now working on the release of my out of print books onto CD's, and producing DVD's of my painting techniques. My true passion is for designing and my schedule is tight, so I am not traveling much. 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. I am now venturing into licensing my designs into the gift industry, so check the site for updates as I explore that avenue.
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, my family and friends. I am blessed with 2 incredibly, wonderful, delightful sons: Ryan is now 28, and Tyler is 21.
I am engaged to a fellow in this industry, Don Lute of Valhalla Laser Designs, who has been so supportive and dear. In order for me to allow for more time to design, I have hired my longtime friend, Flo Raines, to help out in the office, filling the orders, answering the phone and e-mail - she is a wonderful asset.
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, that you leave the cares and worries of life...
Between the Vines!
Love & Hugs, Jamie
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