Gail Vail has been an avid painter and writer for most of her life. Born in Nebraska, she earned a B.A. in Business and pursued a career in marketing and human resources with IBM. Her career ultimately brought her, husband Hugh, and children to Atlanta and subsequently to Lake Oconee. Raising a family, combined with a professional career, sidetracked her love of painting and writing for a time. Now retired from corporate America, she has again picked up her pen and her brush. For her, it’s like the light bulb has been turned on again. She is a prolific painter and her chosen subjects are varied.
Her writings include short stories, articles, etc. Her first published book, “Seasons on Lake Oconee” includes writings and paintings by 40 area authors and artists. Her second published book, “The Seasonal Heart” is a collaboration with area author George Heiring. The book was well-received as was their second collaboration, “Turning Leaves.” Both books are filled with entertaining short stories and poems by Heiring as well as full-color paintings by Vail and other area guest artists. She also enjoys public speaking, especially relating how faith and patience have played a role in book publishing.