About

Becoming a professional artist, illustrator, and educator continues to be a beautiful journey. I have spent many years developing in the fine arts ranging from teaching and exhibiting to furthering my education to Master's level. My undergraduate degree gave me an in-depth knowledge of drawing, painting, printmaking, and ceramics, with a focus on oil painting. I continued my training in Italy where I studied Italian fresco painting and then as an apprentice in London, developing my skills as an oil painter. While in London, I was introduced to a classical style where each painting is built up using opaque and transparent layers of paint to create the right narrative, mood, and atmosphere.

I adore storytelling and love to draw and paint people, wildlife, and nature. Though my first love is to paint in oils, I have also found inspiration in watercolors and other mixed media. My work has been exhibited internationally with originals in private collections worldwide.

In addition to my own artwork, I have gained professional experience teaching art in England, Oman, Germany, and the USA. While teaching art to children I developed a passion and love for picture books and would often incorporate them into art lessons. Now with two children of my own, I am constantly inspired by the artwork and storytelling that picture books offer.

As a daughter of an Alaskan fisherman (and woman), I have always felt most at peace near the sea. Like the salmon, I returned home to the Pacific Northwest to be closer to family and the great outdoors.

Thank you for letting me share my gallery with you. I hope you have enjoyed it.

-Amy Jo Divis