Joan Hayes

"What excites me most about creating a piece of art is the element of surprise that comes with each piece I work on. I may start out with an idea for a painting or etching and the medium will send me in a whole new direction. Sometimes it can be challenging but mostly it is very rewarding and just plain fun. How lucky am I?"

Joan was born and raised in Burlington, Vermont. Joan began her training in the arts at age thirteen when an older sister offered her the option of either piano or painting lessons for her birthday. Joan opted to paint and has never strayed from this path. Joan continued her studies of fine art at St. Michael's College in Vermont and later at Mississippi University for Women in Columbus, Mississippi.

After college, Joan began raising her family. She was fortunate to be able to continue painting while caring for her family at home. In 1989, Joan and her family settled in Amherst, New Hampshire where she opened her painting studio and gallery.

Joan's watercolors focus primarily on New England landscapes, yet she also enjoys painting floral scenes and still lifes. Joan was thrilled to get the opportunity to explore the printmaking process while studying in Anacortes, Washington, an experience which has opened a whole new avenue combining the synergy of etching and watercolor.

Joan continues to pursue her passion for painting and etching from her studio and feels fortunate to be able to make a living doing something that is so rewarding to her.