Ever since I was a child, I enjoyed working with my hands. My live in Hungarian grandmother was a skilled seamstress and bestowed her knowledge on me, helping me with doll clothes early on, and by the time I was a high school student I made my entire wardrobe. I still use my sewing machine on a regular bases, though not to the extent I did when I lived in N.J., fabricating window treatments and all kinds of home necessities. I was self taught and did many projects working with decorators. Sewing window treatments enabled me to put our 3 children through college without loans.

I was an art major at Montclair State University in N.J. I was married, had children and as a stay-at-home mom, dabbled in whatever artistic endeavor I could. One of these was making concrete leaves which are cast from real leaves such as hosta, maple, rhubarb, elephant ear, many of which I grow myself. I displayed and sold these at the Jerome Artists Cooperative for 7.5 years.

During those years at the gallery, I became interested in oil painting and so I began taking lessons with a fellow member, and then a second member. I discovered that painting is a medium that is frustrating, challenging, relaxing, and rewarding, not necessarily all at once. It is a skill that is constantly evolving. The more I learn or know the more I don’t know. I can get lost in painting for hours on end. I am no longer a member of the Jerome Coop but have continued to paint and sew.

I have always used my talents to sell products, but that is not necessarily my main goal at present. I try to meet with another artist/friend to paint plein air when we can and my sewing machine never gets put away. My creativity is now for me to enjoy, though I do sell on Etsy (LoveFromChristine). I hope you enjoy my show displaying vintage style hats, and my paintings, prints, and cards.

If you are interested in any of my work, I can be reached at 928-999-4988 or 908-391-0528, or therybacks@hotmail.com