A little bit about me.

I have always been fascinated by fabric. When I was very young I used to make outfits for all my stuffed animals with the toy Singer sewing machine that I received for Christmas one year. (I wish I still had that sewing machine!)

I have also always been interested in science. So, I became an engineer. I worked at the Jet Propulsion Lab for many years, but alas, that career was not to be.

Whether by accident or the hand of fate, I became an artist. As an artist, not only am I able to fully express my inner vision, but I am able to use many of my technical skills.

The art that I create requires not just knowing what color to use, but a significant amount of planning, and thought.

My Favorite Art Show

I've been showing my artwork at the Laguna Art-A-Fair Festival for more years than I care to admit. I have really enjoyed my summers there. And If you are an artist interested in becoming part of this wonderful show, here is a video showing my top 10 reasons for becoming an artist at the Laguna Art-A-Fair Festival.

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Art and Craft Show Schedule

Sorry, I have no plans for doing any shows in 2023. I suffered a stroke in mid-May and it is going to take several months of rehabilitation before I am ready to do any shows. If there is something you want to buy from me, send me an email at retta@LorettaAlvarado.com and let me know what you are looking for.
Here is where I was in 2021:
Here is where I was in 2019:
Here is where I was in 2018:
Here is where I was in 2017:

My Signature

When we were growing up, my younger brother had a difficult time saying "Loretta." So, my name was shortened to "Retta." The nickname stuck and now I use it as my artist signature. However, the astute observer will notice that the entire name is represented in this signature.

The apostrophe represents the missing "o" and the flourish at the bottom represents the missing "L." Hence, all 7 letters are accounted for.

The Shy Artist

Are you a shy artist like me? If you need help with your art or craft career visit TheShyArtist.com for useful resources based on my 20+ years in the art and craft show business. Or go to Amazon.com to purchase my books.