Art can mean different things to different people. For me, I find the process of ‘creating’ something therapeutic, challenging, intriguing and peaceful all at the same time. It is an escape, an outlet. And on occasion it can be a means to part with emotions. But what I enjoy most is creating something that holds meaning, or sentimental value, for someone else. Interestingly, this is how I got my start in oil painting.
 
In 2000, I began painting shortly after the death of my youngest brother, Steve Raffety. As you can imagine, it was a difficult time not only for me but especially my mother. I was compelled to paint a surreal impressionist scene of my mother and Steve having a picnic in the sun. I shocked her with it about a month after my brother had died. It was only my third attempt at painting and I had not shared my new found passion with anyone. I simply wanted to paint something that was in some way healing and comforting.
 
Since that time, I’ve produced close to 150 oil paintings in a variety of styles. I’ve also branched out into photography and mural work. I participate in several art guilds and associations, ever continuing to learn and gain experience.
 
I prefer an impressionist approach rather than a realistic one. I set out to create a piece that captures or evokes emotion as well as allows the viewer to escape from the day to day world around them.  
 
My artwork is simply the world around us through my personal and artistic filter.

Ongoing Shows and Exhibits
Dunwoody Library Exhibit: Myself along with other members of the Dunwoody Fine Arts Association will exhibit their works of art in the library hall of the North DeKalb Cultural Center in Dunwoody, Georgia.
Dr. James H. Hutson, DDS: My original works of art are on display at Dr. Hutson's office in Marietta, Georgia. 
Art in the Square: Annual event sponsored by Quinlan Arts Center in Gainesville, Georgia.
Spout Springs Library Exhibit: Myself along with other members of the Artisans of Flowery Branch will exhibit works of art in Flowery Branch, Georgia. Hall County Friends of the Library Association will also promote and sell marketing materials with images from our Story Time Friends Mural located in the children's section of the library.

Past Shows and Exhibits
Gwinnett County Historic Courthouse: Artwork on Exhibit May 25 thru August 22, 2007.
Northside Hospital Oncology Ward: Myself along with other members of the Dunwoody Fine Arts Association will exhibit their works of art in the oncology ward of Northside Hospital.
Nautical Art at The Yacht Club: Sponsored by the Artisans of Flowery Branch and on exhibit at The Yacht Club, Flowery Branch, GA
The Sycamore Grill Artwork: on Exhibit February-June 2007 in the historic Stone Mountain Village.
Suwanee Day Festival: Summer 2005 & Summer 2006
Dunwoody Preservation Trust: Meet the Artist October 29th - January 7th. Meet the Artist sponsored by the Dunwoody Fine Arts Association and the Dunwoody Preservation Trust.
Quinlan Visual Arts Center: 59th Annual Members Exhibition; October 5th - November 22nd, 2006
Centerville Community Center Exhibit: Sponsored by Gwinnett County October 2005-January 2006
Grant Park Show: Summer 2005
Possible Woman Foundation International: Auctioned at the Starry Night Gala 2006 for the Possible Woman Foundation International. Proceeds from Starry Night support the foundation's mission to change the lives of women and girls globally through inclusive and collaborative leadership, integrity, and lifelong learning. Please visit their website for more information.
Chateau Élan: Show Spring 2005