Ann Self Lowen
Ann Self Lowen, 74, of Santa Barbara, CA died peacefully surrounded by family and friends on August 22, 2023. She was preceded in death by her parents, Sue Walker Self and Frank Thomas Self, her husband, Charles W. “Mike” Lowen. She is survived by her sister, Nancy Self and her stepchildren, Ann Lowen Brown and Matt Lowen. Ann was born in Pleasant Hill, Tennessee on February 23, 1949. Her father’s work took the family to many places across the United States and in Europe.
From an early age, Ann loved drawing and painting and did so whenever she could, taking advantage of the art instruction offered by her schools. She majored in fine arts at the University of Houston, then worked several years as a commercial artist. Travel continued to be a major part of Ann’s life, and her art reflected the varied beauty of the places she lived and visited in her travels. She continued to hone her talent by taking workshops from many well- known artists. Ann believed that each creature and each place had its own unique beauty and strived to capture that unique essence in her own art. She painted in her own unique palette knife style. Ann participated in exhibitions and competitions throughout the United States. She has been featured in International Artist Magazine and Wildlife Art Magazine. She was a member of Oil Painters of America, Society of Animal Artists, and a signature member of American Women Artists. Her paintings hang in private and corporate collections across the country, and many may be viewed at AnnSelf.com
When at home in Hutchinson, Kansas, Ann enjoyed painting with friends and weekly artist groups. In addition, Ann and Mike traveled extensively all over the world for over 40 years. As they sailed the Islands of the Caribbean and up the east coast, they sometimes spent several months on their boats. Both were also licensed helicopter pilots.
After Mike’s death in 2012, Ann moved to Santa Barbara, CA and lived there the remainder of her life. Typical of Ann’s kind and loving nature, she spent many years providing compassionate care for an ill friend.
As an active member of Unity of Santa Barbara Spiritual Community, Ann was on the Board of Directors for several years and developed a strong circle of friends that she enjoyed and cherished. She studied voice with Ejé Lynn-Jacobs who helped her develop and project her voice. Joining the Unity Singers gave her an expression of her new found voice. She will be remembered for her striking performance of “Santa Baby” in the Holiday video concert in 2020.
Ann will also be remembered for her consistent and generous service at Unity, organizing many events as well as being the ‘linen goddess’ and assisting with Showers of Blessing. She was gracious and warm hearted and inspired others by her presence and actions.
Ann died comfortably in her own home as her friends provided her care and support. Ann’s sister, Nancy, was present and supported her as she made her transition. She is surely beloved and welcomed in the next world as she is loved by those of us still walking the earth.
Cremation has occurred. A celebration of life is being planned for September 28, 4pm at Unity Spiritual Community. Also, a graveside service is planned for a later time in Tennessee.
Donations in her memory may be sent to Hutchinson Art Association, 405 N. Washington St., Hutchinson, KS, 67501 or Unity of Santa Barbara Spiritual Community, 227 E. Arrellaga St., Santa Barbara, CA 93101