Arleen was raised in Ontario, Oregon.  In 1956 she moved to Oklahoma.  There she met and married her husband, an air force officer.  In 1957 they were transferred to Evreaux-Fauville air base, located just 60 miles from Paris, France.  Her interest in painting grew with all the beautiful art and breathtaking scenery of France, Belgium, Holland, and Germany.  While in the service Arleen, her husband, and seven children also lived in Mississippi, Montana, Iowa, Tennessee, Washington state, and Alaska. 

Arlene interest in painting intensified while she lived in Alaska and began art studies at the Art Center in Anchorage, under the guidance of Ina Hoak and Dean Brennan.  She has continued to develop her style since moving to Boise, Idaho and has attended classes taught by Quentin Gregory and Frances Good.