JoAnn Franklin

 JoAnn is both an author and a painter.  An avid reader, she has written four novels in women's fiction and published two of them.  Women's fiction explores the character of the female protagonist and while it often involves romance, the emphasis is on the character not the romance between the female protagonist and the male protagonist. Her novels are about women of strength and courage.

As for painting, that has long been a love/hate relationship. She decided painting wasn't for her decades ago when she brought home a mountain scene, and both of her children said, "Great floating potatoes, Mom."  When she retired, she revisited that decision and took her second painting class, this time with teachers at Brunswick Community College and with Joseph Bardani.  That decision led to more classes and membership in the Artisans. 

Why does she do both?  JoAnn enjoys creating something from nothing.  Writing begins with a blank page.  Painting takes shape on a white canvas.  And she gets to solve problems and make decisions about ideas and thoughts she considers important.  For example, adding a bit of shadow to a floating potato makes for a gorgeous mountain.  Where else can you reach for the sky except in your imagination?  

JoAnn was born and raised in Ramsey, Il. A former associate professor in educational leadership at TTU, she lived in the Midwest and in Texas and now resides in St. James with her husband.  Art has become a way to connect with people from all over the country.

jfk1913@gmail.com
​806-928-6511