I have been painting and drawing my entire life. My earliest memories were of drawing constantly on anything I could get my hands on! When I was around 12 years old, I spent some time taking oil painting classes with an instructor who only accepted children who were already talented. I basically had to "audition" to be in her class. Although it was many years ago, I learned to be confident in my ability and it allowed me to explore painting in a way I had never done before.

As I grew older, life and responsibility got in the way of of my art. Eventually, it just seemed like something...

I have been painting and drawing my entire life. My earliest memories were of drawing constantly on anything I could get my hands on! When I was around 12 years old, I spent some time taking oil painting classes with an instructor who only accepted children who were already talented. I basically had to "audition" to be in her class. Although it was many years ago, I learned to be confident in my ability and it allowed me to explore painting in a way I had never done before.

As I grew older, life and responsibility got in the way of of my art. Eventually, it just seemed like something I used to do! Those close to me always knew I was artistic and I was usually the one asked to do anything and everything that might need some creative expression!

At some point, probably around 14 years ago, someone asked me to paint a full scale "family tree" on their wall. I told them there was no way I could do that! But after being talked into it, it actually came out really nicely and my latent talents started to bloom once again. I put together a portfolio, took it over to my local paint store, and a muraling business was quickly born.

I've spent all the years since painting murals and faux finishes for many people. At some point when murals started to die down a bit, I reinvented myself and learned how to paint kitchen cabinets, doors, etc. to resemble different types of wood. So another branch of my business was born and it has been keeping my steadily employed.

What has been lacking now for some time, however, is the joy that painting brings me. Painting for ME. I've spent so much time making painting a business, learning to paint quickly, learning to listen and produce what OTHER people's visions are. I need to get back to what I love to do. So now another twist in my life and it's time to paint again on canvas. What I choose, what I love, what I'm drawn to. I can't wait to see where it all goes.

One exciting update was that I was recently asked to submit paintings for Walt Disney Signature Collection! My interpretation of Disney Classic Movies. If approved, then the prints will not be available on here any longer, but the originals will still be available at my website, www.denisemariesaylor.com.

Thank you for taking the time to explore. Keep checking back as I keep adding to my collection. You can also find me at http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Denise-Marie-Saylor-Fine-Arts/287222826542?ref=ts