Joan grew up in an artistic household, so creating art was a way of life from an early age. She painted her first commissioned portrait at the age of 13 and continued to work as an illustrator for her school district throughout high school. Her curiosity about life and nature led her to study dentistry after college, all the while maintaining a freelance illustration practice.
Not formally trained, she has explored many different media and learned from artists and mentors in various fields, including painting, design, sculpture, airbrushing and printing.

Retiring from dentistry in 2016 after a 35-year career, Joan became a full-time illustrator working on various projects, including packaging for food companies and painting murals for restaurants.

A move from Dallas, Texas to Eugene in September of 2022 has revived her love of fine art and painting. Joan has found the arts community in Eugene to be supportive and inspiring. She volunteers regularly at the Maude Kerns Art Center and has had pieces selected in two juried shows — one at White Lotus Gallery and one at the Eugene Airport.

Joan continues to find inspiration in the vibrant wine community throughout the Willamette Valley and plans to expand her still life series featuring wine and al fresco settings.