An experimental art class that she attended seven years ago led a longtime fabric artist and local business owner, Kathy Lyons into a whole new career as an award winning watercolor artist. Prior to the class, Lyons sold her painted clothing and furniture through “Accents” her downtown Traverse City gift shop. She also did interior design during the fourteen years that she owned the store. Lyons’ work ranges from the traditional to the Impressionistic. Her pieces, which have won awards at juried art shows and been exhibited in Chicago as well as Michigan, includes flowers, waterfalls, and lighthouses, winterscapes and other scenes drawn from the natural beauty of the area. Her downtown roots are reflected in several paintings including one featuring the Historic Opera House. Another painting, a rainy street scene includes Martinek’s landmark curbside clock. Trips to Hawaii last winter and France more recently, are also providing inspiration for Lyon’s work. She has also received commissions to create works for several area businesses.