By Carolyn Henderson

DAYTON–Interesting people do interesting things. They think about what they want to do, figure out what they need to know to do it, and then...they do it.

They're not afraid of the process of experimentation, of practice, of learning, all of which involve a lot of, well, failures, because they recognize that those failures eventually lead to success––not to mention great stories for around the fireside or dining room table.

"I've always enjoyed 'making stuff,'" says watercolor painter Steph Bucci of West Richland.

"Somewhere along the line in adulthood, I became curious about watercolor, and through the years I said to my husband, Bud, 'When we retire, I want to learn watercolor.' I don't know why I relegated the idea to a retirement pastime, or what kept me from pursuing it earlier."

A self-motivated student who learns best by reading and imitating, Bucci decided not to wait for retirement but to delve into the world of art NOW–acrylics, colored pencils, markers, watercolor, mixed media. She asked questions, found books, watched how-to videos, and painted, painted, painted. And as the years went by, she learned more and more and got better and better.

"I have painted a wide variety of subjects, often just to see if I can do it successfully.

"When I first started painting, I spent a lot of time on flowers; then I added animals. Essentially, I chose subjects that either challenged my skills (actually, everything challenged my skills!) or just seemed beautiful to me."

For a year, she has focused on cats, creating engaging, stylized portraits of felines: cats dancing, doing yoga, posing with other cats, standing side by side with the dog, snuggling with a mouse, kissing. They're fun, fetching, charming, and amiable – images that prompt a smile and good feeling inside.

"I like cats," Bucci says. "Painting them is a great substitute for owning a living version.

"They work for my current artistic inspiration, be it standard watercolor technique, batik, collage, abstract, whimsy or realism.

"The fun is endless!"

Wenaha Gallery is showcasing the feline art of Steph Bucci through April 5, and invites you to step in for that much needed smile and sense of calm. The gallery, located at 219 E. Main, is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.–5 p.m.