"Flowers in Blue Vase" (Watercolor) by Amelia Whaley*

by Helen K. Beacham
Amelia ("Mimi") Whaley was headed straight for the corporate business world out of college back in 1975. 10 years later, her dad gave her a gift of watercolor lessons that has left her with a passion for making art! She still works as a paralegal 30 hours per week, but shares her abundant creative gifts by teaching others and by painting for them. During August, Whaley's art will be on display at Crowfield Golf & Country Club in Goose Creek.

Mimi was born in Charleston SC, grew up at Edisto Beach and currently lives in Mt. Pleasant. She's enjoyed several painting trips to Tuscany and Israel, with a highlight of painting at the 2005 Peace Conference in Jerusalem. In August, she will travel to Santa Fe, New Mexico for a workshop in the ancient art of Fresco painting. She's looking forward to grinding her own paints made from natural pigments and plans to spend several extra days painting the colors, light and texture of the Southwest.

Whaley is a member of Courtyard Art Gallery in Charleston, of the Charleston Artist Guild, the South Carolina Watercolor Society, the Christians in the Visual Arts and the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. Her paintings have been reproduced as cover art for music tapes, CD's, and books. She's recently illustrated several books for Ariel, a Ministry of Proclamation. You can view some of her work at www.ameliawhaley.com, www.courtyardartgallery.com and www.mimispaintingaday.blogspot.com. Her artwork will also be on display and for sale at Crowfield Golf & Country Club throughout the month of August. 300 Hamlet Circle, Goose Creek, SC.