Jo Lively Wainright was born in Bluefield, West Virginia. After giving Jo a box of crayons for her third birthday, her parents were intrigued by her natural ability. As a high school student, her parents encouraged Jo's talent by seeking out an instructor. They were able to locate European artist Dr. Velta Zvargulas , who had fled Latvia to escape communism. Under the tutelage of Dr. Zvargulas Jo blossomed as a watercolorist. Jo credits her artistic accomplishments to her parents devotion and determination.

       Upon graduation from West Virginia University she moved to Raleigh, NC, where she raised her 4 children. Jo's second child, Leslie, was born with Downs syndrome and Jo's artistic aspirations were put on hold, as she vowed Leslie would be given every opportunity available. Jo was determined that Leslie would be able to lead an independent life like her siblings. While spending countless hours with Leslie at developmental clinic and various therapy appointments, Jo was inspired to paint portraits of those with special needs. Jo was able to eloquently portray the realism of beauty in those that are frequently overlooked.

       Jo's entrance into the public sector of the art world was a combination of her two passions, her love of Leslie and her art. Jo's art found a purpose and was showcased through a variety of special needs foundations. Jo's was commissioned by the Wake County Arc to paint a series of special needs children depicted in mainstream environments. The response to this project was overwhelming and earned Jo the reputation as an accomplished portrait artist.

       It was once again the love and devotion to her daughter Leslie that led Jo to Little Switzerland, NC. After a tragic accident, Leslie was unable to lead the independent life that she had worked so hard to achieve. Jo's devotion, like that of her parents, wanted the best for her daughter. After many months of research, Jo decided the Hawthorne House in Burnsville, NC was the best selection for Leslie's care and continued progress. Leslie had always wanted to be an artist like Mama and as part of Leslie's rehabilitation program, she spends her days at Shortbus Studios, where Leslie is able to be an artist in her own right.

       Jo's talent ranges from portraits, to award winning florals and landscapes. It is the diverse expression of her passions that makes Jo's art prominent in her medium.

       Jo's award winning watercolor paintings are in private and corporate collections throughout the southeast and Europe. She is represented by several galleries and has been featured in numerous newspaper articles. She works from her home studio in Little Switzerland, NC.