Smith Dawn Marie

Dawn Smith was born on 31 October 1972 in Rockford, Illinois. She was born suffering from the "Holt-Oram-Syndrome". This inherited disorder affects the hands and heart. In her case the disorder manifested itself principally in a malformation of her hands and arms. Her arms are shortened and her hands have only three fingers. While still a child Dawn started to use her feet to carry out the activities of daily living. She also uses her right foot to paint and draw. Over the years the artist has taught herself the techniques of painting. She is very intent on further developing her artistic skills. Her preferred media are oils, chalk, enamel and watercolour.