DIANE O'CONNOR
designer - catalyst - coach
About
My passion has always been design—I love “arranging and integrating pieces” of various kinds, and over the years I’ve enjoyed designing in a wide variety of spaces such as interiors, gardens, theatre sets, graphic design, and creating art in my own studio. I soak in God’s amazing handiwork in nature, and I appreciate excellent man-made design anywhere I see it.
Holding a BFA from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee, I started my career as an art teacher, inspiring students at all levels from grade school to university. “What’s in your heart, comes out in your art!” was a phrase they often heard me repeat.
In the late 90's I became fascinated with the way God uniquely designed individuals, and calls us to work well in teams. I pivoted, and began to coach leaders to clarify their design and calling, and to live and lead from the inside-out. I became the Director of Ministry development at our church and completed my Master’s in Ministry Leadership through Rockbridge Seminary. I enjoyed a wonderful season, facilitating new ministry start-ups, and loved coaching leaders and teams using my Leader to Leader Framework . Though I retired from staff, I continue to capture ideas on my whiteboard bringing vision and clarity for next steps to those God sends my way..
In 2020, I began to revisit my fine art roots, and I decided to focus on using acrylics to capture the beauty I see in everyday scenes in central Wisconsin. I’m especially drawn to colorful country scenes with meandering paths, water of any kind, florals, and small town scenes that remind me of simpler times. I like to use touches of unexpected color, soft edges, loose brushstrokes, texture, and mixed media to express the joy and peace art brings to my heart. I've also been combining art with my ove of writing through creative journaling.
My husband Bob and I made our home in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin in 1976 when he joined Riverhill Dental Clinic. We have four married children, one married granddaughter, and 13 other grandchildren. Best of all, we recently welcomed our very first great-grandchild!
