Gretchen’s work is inspired, not only by her love of painting, but from her ethnic heritage, teaching and the world around her. After majoring in advertising and design, she went on to study fashion illustration at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles, then finished out her studies at The Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. As a tenth generation Native of California, Gretchen is a descendant of the first Spanish settlers and the California Rancheros. Combined with her native roots, her work is inspired by this rich Ethnic heritage. Vibrant color and spontaneity, are expressed in the gentle beauty of the Native and Hispanic people she paints. Combining the traditional with the contemporary, she is able to paint with freedom and passion. Gretchen lives in Northern Arizona, where she continues to pursue her love of painting and teaching. She has taught at the Sedona Arts Center for over 18 years, and teaches workshops abroad in Spain and Mexico. Gretchen was nominated for the Viola Award for Excellence in Art Education, and has won numerous awards in the Sedona Plein Air Festival. Her works are in private collections both nationally and internationally, as well in exhibits at the Historic Phippen Museum of Western Art. Gretchen’s work is represented by The Sedona Arts Center Gallery, Adelante Gallery, and The Turquoise Tortoise Rogoway Gallery in Tubac Arizona.
She is also a member of the Impressionist Society of America.
