I was born and raised in rural East Texas and moved to Dallas after completing my Graduate training in counseling psychology. Growing up in the country, with plenty of time and space to be alone, was the perfect setting for me to seek answers to the mysteries of the world. As a young child I had more questions than the world had answers. That still holds true. The only difference now is that I can say I am comfortable "not knowing."

Like many of you, I have always been sensitive to the cruelty and suffering in the world. At the same time, I've always been in awe of the beauty that sits by its side. I've had a long career in the mental health field helping people overcome obstacles that stood in the way of a better life. And, I've done my best to assist our four-legged friends as well. Art was very useful with my therapy clients. The creative expressions of painting, drawing, sculpting, journaling and music can reach the depths of suffering, touch the spirit, and pave the way for the best in people to surface!

A few years ago, I felt a strong need to expand my growth and development by plunging feet first into my own creativity. I closed a successful psychotherapy practice, took a leap of faith and began to paint in oils! By preparing a website, I will be sharing a portion of my new journey with those interested. My intention is to have a successful second career incorporating my strong background in human development with art as the vehicle. Any creative journey has its twists and turns. Mine will be no exception and I'm very excited about the possibilities! I'm reassured by more experienced artists/teachers that "style" will develop; technique improves and life goes on. I'm trying many kinds of mediums and I'm experimenting with different subject matter. Facial expressions keep resurfacing in my work. I enjoy working with strong colors, interesting shapes, forms and textures.

I continue to seek out instruction primarily at Brookhaven School of Arts in Dallas and I'm involved in private instruction as well. I've studied at the Taos Institute of Art in Taos, New Mexico. It's definitely a soothing place for spirit and a great support for any creative urge. My new colleagues, several of them artists, are a tremendous support and act as teachers and mentors. Look for them (and other influential people) in my "Featured Artist" section.

Take a look at my work. Each viewer will find something different as you bring your history and associations into whatever you see or do. It's an exciting two-part scenario. I can express a strong passion, my creative imagination, and you have artwork to like, dislike, ignore, react against, embrace or cherish. What a great thing!

Lynda Rhodes 2004