Rayna Hanna is a local artist who specializes in pen and ink and watercolor. She lives in Castle Rock with her poet husband and their three kitten kids. Rayna is a native of Oklahoma who adopted Colorado after graduating from the University of Colorado with a degree in Art History. After retiring from a law enforcement career, she took up art as a full-time endeavor.

While Rayna often works in watercolor, her favorite form of expression is pen and ink. Pen and ink drawings are a true fine art form. The fine lines of pen and ink are a representation of the subject, not an attempt to copy or reproduce it. The viewer is invited into the drawing as a participant.

Rayna spends many hours traveling the back roads of Colorado searching out the places that are quickly succumbing to relentless progress. An empty mercantile, a one-room schoolhouse or a deserted motor court has joined better known landmarks as subjects for her pen and ink drawings.

Currently she is working on two series of works, one of Castle Rock's pioneer buildings and one of the region's vintage railroad structures. Places and objects, large or small, that bear imprints of our personal passing through time. Her drawings give memories the interpretation and life they deserve.

Her studio models include collectibles, antique toys and some very lovable teddy bears and bunnies. These characters are featured in settings from tea parties to adventures. Her works are sure to bring back childhood memories. For those wishing to celebrate the present, she also offers works of client's pets, homes and Colorado wildlife. Past and present are presented with emotion and skill.

Rayna's artwork can be seen at Stoa Gallery in Castle Rock. For those wishing to meet Rayna, she will be participating in the Art Guild Second Saturday Arts Alive art walks starting May 12.