Gayle Dowling grew up in an artistic family that appreciated and loved art and music. She recieved her first instruction from her grandmother Mary, who was a well known seascape artist in Laguna beach. Gayle later studied art in high school and college, winning many awards for her work. She later became a teacher and was nominated for the prestegious Bravo award for her art instruction.
After retiring from teaching, Gayle founded The Loft in Wrightwood, California where she displays her watercolors, graphite and pen and ink works. She also holds art workshops and private lessons for children and adults. The dates for the workshops can be found on The Loft calander, and private lessons can be set up individually.