Carol Rowan

Artist Biography

When Carol Rowan retired from teaching ten years ago she traded her classroom for a studio and turned a hobby into a career. "I taught for 30 years,' says Carol. "I delayed focusing on painting in order to work and raise my family. Once I had the time, I felt a sense of obligation to turn my attention to art.' Retirement for this busy artist has hardly been a tranquil affair. This year alone Carol has had three major solo shows and her art, prints and posters have been among Wild Apple's best sellers.

Carol paints art, prints and posters in her home studio every day. She draws inspiration from her beautiful cottage-style gardens, which she says provide her not only with subject matter for her luminous pastels but also with a source of relaxation and pleasure. Climbing roses surround her dining room windows. Clematis weave their way up walls and annuals display a riot of color throughout the growing season.

Carol's large, bright studio has arched windows overlooking these gardens. Works of art, prints and posters, her own and those of friends, as well as photos of her three young grandchildren, decorate the walls. Her two big easels may be home to charming florals or dramatic landscapes, depending upon the day. Classical music fills the air as Carol deftly blends pastels on paper. "I love pastels, partly because they dry so quickly. While I was raising the children and working full-time this was an important consideration and I have appreciated this quality ever since.” For Carol, retirement from teaching provided the opportunity to pursue her passion and transition to a new career. Judging from her enthusiasm and many successes, it is one that thoroughly agrees with her.

Carol Rowan Art, Prints and Posters Collection