A passion for Decorative Art was born in 1989 when I attended my first Folk Art class, and has grown ever since.  I was surprised to find how easy it was to paint beautiful things when you take it “step-by-step”.  I have now been teaching for approximately 15 years.

When I attended my first Kaswood Convention in Toronto, I was intrigued by Mary Owens’ designs and her technique.  I took one of her CMOT Certification Program flyers home and thought about it for a few years.  I guess I did not have the initial confidence to take on a new technique, let alone becoming a CMOT. 

Well, after meeting Mary a few more times and taking a class in Port Perry (Ontario),  I was hooked and finally registered to become a CMOT.  I have met wonderful people through this art form and I love the sense of relaxation I get when inking/painting. 

Recently, I moved back home to Welland (Ontario), and with the help of my siblings and family opened a little retail art and learning shop (named "Creative Nest") in the spring of 2005.

My husband Ted set up the Point of Sale system and computer network, while our daughter Genevre has been maintaining the shop aesthetically,

We offer a variety of art classes for children and adults, ranging from hand-building pottery, stained glass, painting and drawing to pen & ink with rouged oils (and now ceramic arts).

While our showroom features the consigned works of dozens of local artisans, we also carry art supplies, including Mary Owens Design packets, brushes and paints.

If you are looking for a relaxed atmosphere under which to paint, drop into Creative Nest for a "cuppa"!