Christina Marie Unwin

She is survived by her children Susan (Angelo), Laura, David (Monika), Carol (Jason), and Diana; her grandchildren Olivia, Angelo, Evan, James, Luke, Annie, Megan, Griffin, Grayson, Giselle, Aurora, and Madeline; her great-grandchild, Valentine; her brother, Richard (Sharon) Rudy; and her sister, Cathy Rudy (John Selkirk). Chris was preceded in death by her loving husband of 62 years, Donald Dean Unwin; her parents, Walter Rudy and Wanda Rudy-Skwiera; and her brother, Martin Rudy.

Born and raised in Detroit, Chris graduated from Chadsey High School before earning her degree in Education from Western Michigan University. She began her career as an elementary school teacher before devoting her life's work to her passion for art.

Chris was an internationally recognized watercolor artist, author, teacher, and entrepreneur. She was a Signature Member of the National Watercolor Society and an active member of the Detroit Society of Women Painters and Sculptors. Together with her husband, Don, she founded Creative Art Workshops, Creative Art Press, and Creative Art Travel, inspiring thousands of artists through workshops, educational travel, books, DVDs, and instructional materials. Her publications, including The Artistic Touch series, encouraged artists to paint with confidence, creativity, and joy.

Many of Chris's students became lifelong friends. They often spoke not only of what she taught them about watercolor, but of how she inspired them to see the world differently. She encouraged artists to be fearless, trust their instincts, and embrace the unexpected, believing that some of the most beautiful paintings came from happy accidents. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and she had a remarkable gift for making every student—from the beginner to the accomplished artist—feel capable and encouraged.

With the encouragement of her husband, Chris overcame her fear of flying and discovered a lifelong love of travel. She later became a travel agent, combining her passion for travel with her art businesses by organizing destination art workshops, including some aboard cruise ships. She and Don explored the world together for both work and pleasure, but Hawaii always held a special place in Chris's heart. Though Don had many other places he hoped to visit, he happily returned to Hawaii each February to celebrate their wedding anniversary in the place she loved most.

Those who knew Chris remember her generosity with both her time and her talents. She celebrated the successes of others as enthusiastically as her own and delighted in helping people discover their creativity. Her kindness, encouragement, and unwavering belief in her students gave countless artists the confidence to pick up a paintbrush, try something new, and believe in themselves. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched through her encouragement, laughter, and passion for art.

Chris had a free spirit and a joyful outlook on life. She loved to laugh, and her infectious laugh could fill a room. She was spontaneous, adventurous, and always ready to turn an ordinary day into something memorable. Whether she was leading an art workshop, traveling, or spending time with family and friends, she brought warmth, humor, and a sense of fun wherever she went.

Above all, Chris was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was incredibly proud of her family and treasured spending time with them, hosting family gatherings, and passing on family traditions. She filled her home with love, laughter, creativity, and unwavering support.

While her family mourns her loss, they are profoundly grateful for the extraordinary life she lived, the beauty she created, and the love she shared. Her legacy lives on through her family, her artwork, and the countless artists and friends she inspired.

A service will be held at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 4300 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield, Michigan 48323, on Thursday, August 6, 2026, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. and a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Everyone is invited to attend the lunch reception at Uptown Grille, 3100 E. West Maple Road, Commerce Township, Michigan 48390, at 12:30 p.m. Please RSVP to [email protected] to help with planning. Whether you are able to join us for the visitation, Funeral Mass, lunch reception, or any combination of these, your presence will be warmly welcomed.

In honor of Chris's love of art, vibrant colors, and Hawaii, those who wish are welcome to wear Hawaiian-inspired attire or colorful clothing in celebration of her life.

A private burial will be held the following day at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan.

The family kindly requests that no flowers or plants be sent to the church, restaurant, or funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one's choice in Chris's honor.