Craggy rocks on the beach which at first glance seem grey, reveal shades of green, flecks of yellow or undertones of purple as you look more closely.  It’s this color within color that draws me to create an image.   Whether working from my own photographs or from life, I believe that a painting becomes its own universe and I don't restrict the composition or subject matter to what inspired it.  If I had to give my style of painting a name, the words "impressionist/ expressionist" come to mind, albeit with a sense of humour and some whimsical fantasy included.  


I gravitate towards acrylics, water-based oils, or watercolors because they lend themselves to a variety of applications including brushwork, palette knife, wiping, and glazing.  I have recently started working with pastels and mixed media.  Regardles of the medium,  I often find my hands and clothing as colorful as the piece I am creating!  My intent is to develop a feeling of fluidity within form, deep color and varied textures, all serving to elicit an emotional response.   I invite you to bring your personal perspective to the way you see my work and to allow my paintings to enrich and enliven the way you see your world. 

Carla was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, but has made her home in Canada since 1975.  She currently lives in Nanaimo, British Columbia. 


Carla received a Diploma in Fine Arts from Fanshawe College in London, Ontario.  Her work has been exhibited in a wide range of Canadian galleries and shows.  Both originals and prints are held in private collections.