A native of Washington, D.C., Dottie retired to Chincoteague Island in 2005, where she is fulfilling her life-long dream of painting.

Inspired by a portrait of her father, painted in 1940 by her Paris-trained-artist grandmother, Dottie creates images in oils, watercolor, and pastels as she seeks to tap into and honor the artistic depth of her grandmother’s talent.

Dottie particularly enjoys painting en plein air on Chincoteague and on the Eastern Shore with the seasonal marsh grasses, ever-changing glades, arresting skies, wildlife, and nature.  She participates in plein air and fundraising events each year.  One of her joys is traveling and painting with fellow artists around the USA and in  Europe, led by the accomplished artist and graduate of Maryland Institute College of Art and Design, Jeanean Songco Martin.  

She enjoys opportunities to study with accomplished artists including Carole Bӧggemann Peirson, Tracey Taylor Arvidson, Nancy West, Julie Riker, Kirk McBride, to name a few.  These creative encounters enrich her artistic expression and expand her technical skills.

Dottie is the Membership Chair of the Eastern Shore Art League.  She is also a founding member of the Monday Artists’ Painting Guild.  She enjoys painting and exploring ideas with artist friends.

Dottie’s paintings can be seen and purchased at Sundial Books and at the CCA Kitchen Gallery on Chincoteague; Lemon Tree Gallery in Cape Charles; Eastern Shore Yacht & Country Club in Melfa; and in the ESAL shows at the Historic Onancock School.