Famous OTC artist D. Morgan, per an interview from a couple of years ago:

(You can see and purchase her art through her web site)

Have you lived in Georgia all your life?

I was born in Atlanta, and I have lived in Georgia all my life.

Were there any early influences that contributed to your love of art?

My daddy was the greatest influence in my life. My love of art was because of him. He was so kind and patient, and encouraged me to paint with him when I was a small child. Daddy was a splendid teacher. From him, I learned color theory, taking care of fine brushes, techniques and impressionism.

Tell us about your art training and how you developed your own style.

After graduating from high school, my formal art training was at the High Museum of Art in Atlanta. My classes in design and composition were favorites. When I first began doing art shows in 1972, I wrote the titles of each on the drawing or painting. People seemed to really enjoy my “one line titles,” so I began elaborating to include my original verse as part of the painting composition. Collectors have continued to respond in a very positive way.

Including your own words with each of your paintings has become an important part of your signature style. When did you start doing this?

I had written verse for years, and when I included feelings in a painting, I realized how much the written word can enhance joy and ease the pain during grief therapy.

Your writing and paintings speak so deeply to the human experience and the many emotions we encounter in life. How do you identify these feelings and express them on the page?

Part of my own therapy in my grief from losing my son in June, 1988 was writing. It was a strange soothing feeling for me. My faith in God, my family, and friends saw me through. My tears truly became rainbows.

You illustrated Carol Hamblet Adam’s My Beautiful Broken Shell. Many people have been touched by this book. Why do you think it resonates with so many people?

My Beautiful Broken Shell seems to relate to everyone because no matter your station in life, rich or poor, famous or unknown, we all understand the concept of the broken shell.

Have any of your own life experiences been particularly helpful in creating your artwork and/or prose?

All my experiences in life have helped me create my verse and my painting. Writing is the most emotionally rewarding, then the painting follows.

The sea and lighthouses are frequently the subjects of your work. Why?

I love the sea. I am drawn to lighthouses because of the families who have risked their lives rescuing the lost sailors. “Guiding friendly strangers, the keeper of the lighthouse is surely friends with God.” This verse is one of my favorites. What a special soul to spend the greater part of his life as a lighthouse keeper.

Have you visited many of the lighthouses you have painted?

I have visited lighthouses in Maine and Massachusetts, and also Hattaras in North Carolina, Tybee light in Tybee Island, Georgia. I’ve also visited Harbor Town light in Hilton Head, South Carolina, as well as Saint Augustine light and Sanibel light in Florida. I have loved painting each and every lighthouse.

Your books usually include excerpts from poems, Scripture, and classic books. Who are some of your favorite authors and books?

Oddly enough, Edgar Allan Poe is a favorite. Much of his work was dark; however, if you study him, you will also find much of his work to be compelling and beautiful. A favorite of mine is “In Search of El Dorado,” a poem he wrote for children, and of course the proverbial “Annabel Lee.” Ernest Hemmingway is another favorite, especially his “The Old Man and the Sea.” Stephen Foster is a favorite even though he is considered a musical composer. Read his “Beautiful Dreamer” and realize what a romantic poet he was.

When you aren’t painting or otherwise working, what are you likely to be doing?

Ed and I love to entertain. We have many wonderful friends who also enjoy traveling as we do. We recently did a river cruise on the Danube, visiting many wonderful cities such as Vienna, Budapest, and Prague. We love to ballroom dance and spend time spoiling our little Yorkie, “Precious Angel.” We have no grandchildren; however, we know that God works in mysterious ways, and He has seen to it that we live next door to wonderful neighbors who just happen to have three of the most adorable, beautiful, and enchanting little girls. I love these children as if they were my own.

Anything else you’d like to share?

In closing I would like to add that my mother Cornelia Whitten will be 103 this December 16. She still loves life, is active socially, and maintains her sense of humor. She lives with us in her own private area. She loves the Atlanta Braves and game shows. I believe God has given me her genes!