Rita was in the group of six original Artists at Spindleworks, working for over three decades. She was a self-taught artist and poet with an infectious laugh. Her paintings and drawings are brightly colored, whimsical, detailed yet simple and depicted her view of the world around her. Birds, chairs, sunbeams, animals, figures—indoor and outdoor settings—infused her art making. She chose multiple mediums including watercolors, gouache, acrylic, pastel and printmaking. Rita's writing and poetry were featured in the first two Spindleworks' poetry books. Her artwork was shown in many exhibitions all over the state, in New York City, Washington, D.C. and Europe. Rita's skater's painting was chosen by former Maine Governor McKernan for his annual holiday card while he was in office.