Artist Statement:

Designing images in my thoughts and seeking them through photography is my passion. I began as a painter and then became known for my hand tinted photographs. I’m now captivated with pushing the photographic manipulation process even further by digitally artistically enhancing my photographic images. I collage, draw, and paint enhancements by using my computer drawing tablet with Painter IX and Photoshop CS2. I occasionally then continue manipulating select images after printing, by hand-coloring with pencils and pastels directly onto the image surface. My imagery varies from flora and landscapes to architectural collage and non-objective abstractions.

Capturing reality on film or digitally is the starting point for my artwork and the images that unfold through digital manipulation are my artistic expressions. The balance of basic design elements in our world is ever changing and is the endless resource of my artistic journeys.
 

Our Story:

I grew up in Lewiston, Idaho and received my B.A. in art from Lewis Clark State College. I continued to paint, but eventually was working at jobs that didn't leave much time for my creative energies.
I pursued my interests in photography. I shot unusual angles and a myriad of subjects always searching for unique designs, thinking I would eventually paint the captured moments. Time passing and no paint or pencils working, I decided to turn towards the collection of photographs for inspiration. I did take two darkroom classes in college and attended a couple workshops and eventually started investing in more equipment.
Invited back to LCSC to exhibit my work in 1984 sparked the combination of my black & white photos with colored pencils. It's been non stop since.
In 1985 I moved from Lewiston to Spokane to work in the Display department at Nordstrom. I continued shooting film and building an inventory of city architecture. In 1986 I took a job as a professional picture framer, which lead to managing a framing gallery and supporting my art career. I again had a solo show at LCSC in 1988 with all manipulated photographs. This lead to a solo show in 1989 at the Chase Gallery, Spokane. I have been participating in a variety of gallery shows and festivals since then, including Artfest, Art on the Green, Inland Craft Warnings, Yuletide, Best of the Northwest, Bellevue's Art Fair, and Boise's Art in the Park.
1989 was very, very good to me, as I also met my husband, Brent Hoogner. Although he works in a technical field, I keep him busy painting or building displays. He tolerates my artistic adventures and is the "Hoo" at STuDio WaHoo. Our best collaborative effort is our daughter, Natalie. She is growing to be an aspiring artist herself and a great helper.
About my current work, I continue to shoot unique subject matter and manipulate the image in the darkroom as well as after with pencils and oils. I mostly offer unique original digital creations and photo-editing. Although custom picture framing at the studio is usually for Waldman Originals, I do consultations and can assist you with choosing unique designs for any of your framing needs. Call, e-mail me or visit one of my representative galleries for that one-of-a-kind piece!