Watercolor has always been Diana Henrichsen's favorite medium especially plein air, painting scenes outdoors. Whether on a boating vacation or a trip to the Sierra, there is always something to paint. Henrichsen takes her supplies along and hopes for the best. Or she'll set up a still life at home when the weather is bad. Henrichsen likes to paint on the spot, enjoying the immediacy of the subject and the watercolors.

Henrichsen was born in Watsonville, CA, and still lives there. She attended local schools during the Depression and World War II. She studied at San Jose State to become an art teacher, but after three years, marriage, her husband, Don, her three children, work, tennis and sailing took over her life for many years.

In the 1960s Henrichsen went back to Cabrillo College in Aptos, CA, for a short time. Instructors Dave McGuire, Howard Ikamoto and Robert Moesle were very influential in helping her develop her watercolors.

About seven years ago, the painting bug bit Henrichsen again and she realized that she wanted to return to painting.

"Years ago, Dave McGuire told us that if you want to improve your painting, you have to 'put miles on your brush.'" That's what Henrichsen is trying to do now, and she hopes you enjoy the scenery along the way.