Joan Emerson

Since my diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease in 2007, I have always tried to stay active and learn new ways of using the gifts inside of me to help others or to give them objects of beauty that I have made for them. I have loved making quilts and gifting them for over 25 years now and along with that have taught myself to do some painting, such as watercolors, acrylics, and even painting seashells I find while walking the beach by my home and making them into jewelry and paintings.
While I have had some changes in my life because of my Parkinson’s, I hold on to the pleasure I receive while painting and helping others learn that they can experience that same pleasure themselves. When I started painting about 15 years ago, I wasn’t sure I would be able to do it because of my PD, but not only did I find that I could, I found it gives me peace and joy that I might not have ever known if I didn’t try it. I am so happy to share my work with friends and family and grateful to have the opportunity to do so.