Born in Roseburg, Oregon, USA, Rebecca Newman is a self-taught mouth artist, who became paralyzed due to polio at the age of 12 while living in Colombia, South America with her family. Pursuing her interest in art actually came much later, while in search of a much-needed creative outlet. Encouraged by a young artist friend from England, she started painting with a brush in her mouth in 1999.
Her paintings are done in acrylics and what inspires her most is the beauty found in creation and trying to capture the subtle variations contained within. The colors of life infused into her paintings are also influenced by positive childhood memories of life in a foreign country and her love for people of all races, languages and cultures. Patiently enduring the challenges of life in a wheelchair has enhanced her ability to observe her surroundings and develop an eye for detail. Though limited physically she sincerely hopes that the courage displayed by applying herself at this artistic endeavor will inspire and strengthen others as they face life's challenges!