My name is Jill Ciccone Pike. I am originally from Dunn, North Carolina but have lived in Raleigh since 1983. I have been drawing since I could hold a pencil, began painting in acrylics at about the age of twelve and switched over to oils when I was in my thirties. I have done commissioned portraits for the past thirty years and have also recently taken up watercolor and colored pencil. My paintings are signed with my maiden name, Ciccone, to honor my father. Most of my adult life has revolved around raising my family. My husband, Skip, and I have a blended family of three sons and two daughters. As our nest has emptied, I am excited to be able to pursue my art on a full-time basis.
I enjoy painting people, animals, landscapes and things found in nature. To be able to capture an expression, a mood or the memory of a special place or event is the ultimate challenge. Nothing is more gratifying than painting a loved one or a treasured moment on canvas for someone. In fact, I see it as a real privilege. I consider my artistic talent as a gift from God to be developed and used to the best of my ability to celebrate life and the beauty of the creation that surrounds us.