Lori Berquist

UserName: Loreen (Lori)Berquist City: Sartell State: MN Followers: (0)

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I became interested in art when I was approximately 9 or 10 yrs old. My older brother was taking an art correspondence course and I asked if I could copy some of his lessons. When I was in my teens, I decided to try the same art course, but decided I didn't have enough talent so I gave it up. However, a wonderful friend of mine, who always believed in me. had kept one of my attempts at watercolor painting that I gave her when I was seventeen. Ten years later I discovered it hanging up in her home, framed and matted. I took a good look at it and thought, "Wow - I guess I really do have talent!". That began my rediscovery of leaning to paint again. I was soon introduced to MN watercolorist, Rose Edin, and was able, over the next few years, to take several of her workshops. I also took another course from Famous Artists Schools, which I finished. I am mainly self-taught, but also enjoy watching tutorials by Tom Lynch plus others such as Gary Jenkins. Since I semi-retired a few years ago, I have begun painting seriously doing watercolors, oils and acrylics. I've had several shows in my local area over the last couple of years, and have done several commission pieces. I will soon begin teaching as a Grumbacher Certified Watercolor Instructor at my local Michael's store which I'm really looking forward to. I am married to my hubby, Gary, of 42 years and we are definitely enjoying retirement together. We have two lovely daughters who are both married but live far, far away from their Minnesota home. No grandbabies yet, but ever hopeful. I enjoy using my talents to hopefully bring folks a break from the chaos that's in this world. As they gaze upon my work, I want it to remind them there is still beauty, peace and hope in this world and that they will be refreshed and renewed by my paintings. In these last few years, I've discovered that painting pictures has helped me change and grow as I've overcome several fears I had about trying new things, not just in my paintings, but in my life in general. I have a whole new confidence I've never had before.