This turtle is a collaboration of two artists:

Bebe Way

I studied art at Atlantic Christian College (now Barton College) in Wilson NC. After teaching art to junior high students for five years in Kinston NC, I married and moved to SC. Eventually, I went to Piedmont Tech and obtained a degree in computer science. This degree along with my art background led me to become a computer graphic artist for Weisz Graphics which later became the Fred B. Johnston Company in Chapin SC. After working there for 25 years, I retired.

After retirement, I rediscovered the joy of oil and acrylic painting. Being a member of Crooked Creek Art League has been very rewarding and has provided the opportunity for me to grown in this medium. I enter paintings in the Juried Crooked Creek Art exhibits each year. I have entered the SC State Fair Art Exhibit where I have sold several paintings.

I like to mix and push paint around until an image emerges that is pleasing to me. Landscapes, animals, and flowers put me at peace. I pair finished with unfinished, detailed against no detail, strong color against soft color. Although I don't paint many abstracts, I really enjoy painting on the basis of the elements alone, not expecting something recognizable.

Joyce Oates

As the retired postmaster of USPS in Prosperity, S. C., I now have the time to pursue my passion for painting. I paint mainly in oil, but also use acrylics and watercolors when needed. I have been commissioned to paint portraits, murals, and landscapes. I enjoy painting Lake Murray water birds (ducks, Canadian geese, egrets, and blue herons).

I have entered and sold paintings in the S.C. State Fair Art Exhibit. As a member of Chapin Crooked Creek Art League, I was an award winner several years in their Annual Art Exhibits & Juried Shows. I have painted murals in homes and in our church. I paint on commission for portraits of children, pets, bridal couples, and portraits from photos of old homes and family members. My work is hanging locally in Newberry, Prosperity, Chapin, and Little Mountain galleries.