MS LOUISIANA SENIOR AMERICA 2016,
KYLE SHERWOOD RALSTON

CONGRATULATIONS to KYLE SHERWOOD RALSTON, Ms. Louisiana 2016!

Kyle Sherwood Ralston is a confidently beautiful American artist. She is an accomplished painter and a nationally acclaimed graphic designer. A gifted individual, Kyle has found great joy all her life, sharing her art and music with the world.

Born the first of 9, in a large energetic family, her parent's love of music and art was passed on to her. Given dance lessons and trained at Carnegie Hall in singing and acting, the "Singing Sherwoods" were featured on TV and stage. At 13, Kyle and 4 sisters were cast as the Von Trapp children in the National Touring Co. of the "Sound of Music"! Her parents traveled with them, along with a private tutor. Kyle received an enriching education, traveling 5 years and performing in the largest theatres in major cities in the US and Canada.

Traveling across America, Kyle developed a love for the natural beauty of our country and a heartfelt respect for the American people. Her love for music was strengthened during a stay in New Orleans, where she was introduced to Dixieland Jazz, a truly American art form!

An excellent student, she graduated college from the American Academy in NYC, receiving her Fine Arts training at Silvermine College of Art in Connecticut. After graduation, she began an illustrous craeer as a Graphic Designer/Art Director in the packaging industry with clients including Calvin Klein, Clairol, Revlon, Bristol Meyers, Hiram Walker and JCPenney. Kyle was honored with the National Paperboard Packaging Council's Award for Design Excellence!

During her years as a graphic designer, Kyle met the love of her life, Bob Ralston. They were married and blessed with a wonderful son, Ryan. Kyle also became stepmom to Bob's 2 terrific sons, Robby and Frank and their families! Her husband has since passed on, leaving a devastating void in Kyle's life. However, she continues to fill the void with family, friends and, of course, her music and art!

At 66, she completed a commissioned oil painting of her hometown. As an award-winning watercolorist, Kyle's artwork is hung in the Governor's office. One painting was chosen by St. Vincent's Foundation Cancer Outreach and awarded anually to their Fundraiser of the Year.

Kyle entertains seniors and veterans. in over 100 shows a year and is the lead vocalist with the Clam Diggers Dixie Band. Life is good and though faced with adversity, "Kyle with a Smile", clings to her philosophy that, "Life, in all it's colors, is breathtakingly beautiful."