Today, this self-taught artist displays the same eagerness to move ahead. It is evident as she reflects on the thrill she gets when starting any new painting, "I see my work as an expression of organic forms within structure," the intense young artist explains. "It's such a challenge...every canvas is filled with endless possibilities."

Working with simple shapes and a complex layering of colors and textures, Ms. Tanner's work is reminiscent of the accomplished abstract expressionist painters of the 1950's.

Ms. Tanner's creative influences include water, rust, train cars, used palettes, the last conversation she overheard. Very often the shape of the paintings themselves come into play, sculpted to be three-dimensional or made of individual canvas panels, they enhance the effect of depth and surface interest to complete the artist's vision.

Other interests she enjoys pursuing include filmmaking, music, photography and writing.