Born in 1959, Catherine Lynn Jeffrey spent her childhood climbing trees in the woods and developing a passion for nature and art. She experimented with several art mediums at an early age,
especially sculpture. Primarily self-taught, Catherine thought of herself as a “tactile artist.” She loved working with clay, wood, metals, and brushes. It seemed that a career in art would be her path. However, a traditional college education was not what Catherine was looking for at that time. Instead, she brought her artistic hands to the Rochester Institute of Technology where she completed an intensive
Summer program in Sign Language. She spent 15 years as a certified American Sign Language interpreter and also earned a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology.
In 1997, Catherine relocated to Matthews, NC in order to be closer to her family. Shortly after moving, Catherine found that her unique communication skills and creativity were needed to help with a family business. Within a short time Catherine and her brother were running the company. Throughout these years, art was always part of Catherine’s life. Sculpture, scrapbooking, and jewelry making were Catherine’s relaxation after a busy corporate day.
In 2002, Catherine was diagnosed with a terminal brain tumor. Years of conventional and alternative therapies have left her with some deficits. Short term memory problems, fatigue, and aphasia made continuing full time at work impossible. However, where one door closes another door opens. Catherine returned to her art full time, this time exploring and teaching herself the unique combining of color and light with watercolor and acrylic paints.
Catherine draws from new experiences as she travels around the world as well as the memories of running through the woods and climbing trees during her childhood. As Catherine passionately puts color to paper, the love of her subjects rewards the viewer with a glimpse of a treasured time or place. She said, “I rediscovered my love for art and found my passion for painting,” and continues to learn through workshops in watercolor and acrylic. “ I love the images that come through my hands… and my eyes.” Numerous artists have influenced her artwork and helped her choose her own style.
Although Catherine lives each day with the reality that she has a terminal brain tumor, she welcomes each day at an opportunity to learn and grow. Her ability to focus on her art is sometimes interrupted as changes occur with her tumor which may require new treatments. Every day brings her closer to the hope of a cure.
Catherine lives in Matthews, NC near her children (and granddaughter!) where she continues to paint every day.