"A daughter, waiting at the door to welcome you home; a son, presenting you with a handpicked bouquet of wildflowers; a granddaughter, lying on your couch, engrossed in a favorite fairy tale—these are Jean Monti s Memories of the Heart™. Jean captures these simple, timeless moments in her paintings which celebrate the joys of childhood and family. Each of her works evokes an emotion that is personal, yet universal, inviting the viewer to recall and reflect on perfectly preserved scenes of innocence, love and security. Jean s artistic signature is recognizable for her realistic style and serene lighting which infuses every scene and bathes her subject in a soft glow. Growing up in a family of six children in Rhode Island, Monti s early artistic influence came from her mother in the form of arts and crafts. Working along side her older brother, who had muscular dystrophy and inspired her with his determination, Monti developed a passion for painting. Following her graduation from the prestigious Rhode Island School of Design, Monti pursued a successful career in commercial art. After the births of her children, she concentrated on pursuing a career in fine art. Jean s images are inspired by her personal memories. She begins by photographing children, and sometimes their parents, interacting naturally in a specific setting. Each painting begins with a pencil sketch. Then, Jean paints with oils, slowly building with transparent washes. Though relatively new to the fine art scene, her highly sought after works are already in numerous private homes and collections nationwide and Monti has gained a reputation as an artist to watch."