About Me ~

Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois. I grew up in the John Hayes Homes, a housing project. I am the oldest child of four children born into a second-generation immigrant family of limited education.

Family never saw education as a valuable commodity. Almost flunked out of high school. If it wasn’t for a counselor who encouraged me to hang in there, I would have quit.

Started painting classes back in 1967 using oil paints. Took some art at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Illinois in 1970 focusing on painting and figure drawing.

Went back to college at 40 years of age. Majored in Art at Richland College. Transferred to University of North Texas, Denton, TX. Mainly, went back to college to get in touch with who I am. Found out that I not only had a talent for art but a strong love to help people. I entered a special program at UNT focused in Counseling Associates Program. Graduated at 45.

Once I was told that the hardest medium to paint was watercolors. It was mentioned that if I could paint watercolors, then I could paint with any medium. That statement became a challenge, so I focused on learning how to watercolor. I have worked in that arena since. Exhibited in the Huffines Art Trails Show.

Photography is a love of mine, too. I work in both color and black and white. Photos exhibited in Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary Nature Photography Contest & Exhibit and Richland Photo Exhibit.

Taught art classes for Youth Believing in Change in Dallas. I have had the opportunity to use my art with clients in dealing with life issues. Conducted workshops for people learning to get in touch with their creative side. In addition, I am currently teaching for the City of Richardson in their recreation facilities, Senior Citizens center, as well as, Hobby Lobby locations in Plano, Allen and Garland.

This year will be my fourth year to go on Mission Trip to Serbia with Fellowship Bible Church @ Arapaho where I teach art classes for a week.

At the 2009 Richardson Civic Art Society Membership Show, painting "Fall Silence" received the Merchants Award.

Plus, I do teach private lessons in watercolor, oil, pastels, acrylics and drawing.

~ JoAnna Clifton