Category: Musical Instruments
My Instrument Series celebrates the intricate craftsmanship of and details of musical instruments. From the delicate keys of woodwinds to the glittery power of brass, each piece highlights the unique character of these musical tools.
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Four Valve Euphonium
I centered this piece on the valve cluster of a euphonium, where mechanics and music meet. I painted the weight, the spacing, and the places hands actually touch. I photographed the source instrument at the November 2025 VMEA conference while I wandered the manufacturer booths looking for reflections and angles to paint. I drew the…
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Eighteen Keys
I painted this fragment of a piano keyboard because repetition and spacing carry their own rhythm. I like how a partial view lets the mind finish the music. I painted the original years ago and finally decided to release it as prints. I gave the original away, but prints are available. Prints ship unframed unless…
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Yarn Percussion Mallets
I painted these yarn mallets because percussion tools carry so much personality, color, and touch. I wanted them to feel lively and intentional, not like props. I took the reference photo at the American Drum table during the 2025 VMEA conference in Norfolk, Virginia. I had a great conversation with George, and he invited me…
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Martin Guitar Headstock
I painted this acoustic guitar headstock to honor the wear, craftsmanship, and familiarity of a well-loved instrument. I leaned into color and shape more than brand or exact replication. I photographed this from my husband’s guitar, one of our favorite acoustics in the family. I intentionally left the logo off and pushed the saturation because…
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Tenor Clef in Slate
Rendered in muted slate tones, this watercolor explores the tenor clef as a strong, understated symbol of musical structure. I didn’t even know tenor clef existed until Rhonda reached out and told me how often string players read it alongside alto clef. I painted this one for her, and for everyone who lives in that…
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Euphonium in Blueberry
A vibrant watercolor captures the intricate beauty of a euphonium in cool blueberry hues. I photographed this pretty and shiny euphonium at the VMEA 2025 conference. Original Artwork Medium: Professional watercolor on heavyweight 300# hot press paper Dimensions: 8″ x 8″ Pigment Note: Features a beautiful granulating pigment called Glacier Green, accented with Magenta and…
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Harp in Blue and Ochre
A watercolor painting of a harp in a striking palette of blue and warm ochre. As a former student of the piano, the harp feels similar, and informed this piece. Capturing the intricate pegs and strings without overworking them was a challenge. It took me two tries, but my hope is that fellow harpists will…
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Violin Scroll in Ultramarine
A close study of a violin scroll in deep ultramarine and violet, set against a richly textured, atmospheric background. This wasn’t just any instrument; it was my son’s. He was small at the time but wanted to play the viola, so his teacher started him on a violin, held and played in the viola style.…