Gail Liston Paints

I was born and raised in Southern California. I went to California State University, Fullerton, majoring in theatre with a BA in Costume design and an MFA in Acting. I have been performing on Whidbey Island for 20 years. Right now, I am in rehearsal for an original musical at Outcast Theater, "The Hotel Belleclaire", written by June Rachelson Ospa and Kezia Hirsey. This show had an Equity reading in New York (Actor's Equity, the professional stage actor's union is a reading using all pros) -- the first step toward getting your show produced in New York, but ours will be the first production.

My love for theatre greatly influences my painting. I try to give each piece a story. I want the viewer to wonder what is happening, to be intrigued, maybe mystified, by the subject and the atmosphere.

My first stab at painting was in college, when I was rendering costume designs. Then followed a gap of about 25 years! About a year ago, I took a watercolor class from local artist Liesel Lund. I wasn't very good, but I loved it, and began painting prolifically. A few months ago, I branched into acrylics with the guidance of Dion Matzen. Now I am so hooked on painting! I draw and/or paint almost every day. It has become such a big part of my life that I can hardly believe I've only been doing it for about a year!

Gail lives in Greenbank on Whibey Island with her husband, Brian and their two pups: Koa and Buddy.