My art is heavily inspired by nature. Each creation takes on its own life, much like nature does when it unfolds. Many of my pieces greet you with a soft, serene atmosphere evoking a peaceful emotion, while others pull you in with the bold colors, telling their own story. I am drawn to the horizon line, the space where land or water meet the sky, a quiet pause at the end of the day as the sun sets, a deep exhale or a place to root yourself to the earth. It reminds me of how important it is to stay grounded in the world we live in today.
I received my BFA in Illustration from Washington University in St. Louis. I taught elementary art for many years and have been a professional artist for the past 5 years. In addition to my studio practice, I lead watercolor workshops and retreats. This work allows me to connect with women, teaching them how to use the medium as a tool to ease anxiety. My painting practice is what grounds me daily. I love sharing with others how to set intentions and being mindful with their own creativity.
Education
Washington University in St. Louis BFA in Illustration
Summer Program at Rhode Island School of Design
I have always loved art and been around a studio my whole life. In 3rd grade, I was told I had a learning disability. My parents enroll me in art classes to build my confidence outside of the academic classroom. It was there that I discovered how to draw, paint with oils and my true love, watercolors. I used my talent to go to Washington University in St. Louis, where I majored in Illustration. I didn’t take into consideration that art school would rob me of my confidence. Looking back, that had more to do with age and not so much about being in an academic setting. But I had to grow up to recognize the truth. Once I graduated, I put my art on the backburner and went into youth ministry, got married, had a baby.
After two kids and a lot of soul searching, I became the Director of Communications at Meals on Wheels in Tampa. I played around with Graphic Design and rediscovered the creativity living deep inside of me. When my children were in elementary school, I got a call from their principal asking if I wanted to be the new art teacher. At the age of 39, I jumped in, head-first, teaching 650 kids,10 classes a day in 30-minute time increments. It was in the classroom where I found my ground and reignited my love for art again.
I officially launched my creative practice in 2017 after teaching elementary art. I love the creative process and making art, so I decided to go out on my own and make the dream a reality. In addition to my creative practice, I lead meditative painting classes and women's retreats.
I wake up every morning, slowly drink my cup of coffee and meander into the studio to create. Being a woman/mother, running a small business brings so much joy to my life. I connect and collaborate with so many people on a daily basis. There is never a dull moment being a creative entrepreneur.
My work has been shown in several galleries including Art House Charlotte (Charlotte, NC), The Scouted Studio (Charlotte, NC), Four Seasons Gallery (Homewood, AL), Sarah Gormley Gallery (Columbus, OH), Anne Irwin Fine Art (Atlanta, GA), FLOW Art Gallery (Palmetto Bluff) and Palm Beach Artist Collective. I have the honor of being self-represented directly from my studio as well as partnering with well-aligned national home decor stores, such as Serena & Lily, Pottery Barn, William Sonoma Home and Ballard Design, as well as HGTV.
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Favorite place to run away to...
I love the mountains, but that isn't always easy to get to from Florida, so I would say any good book that sucks me into the couch for an afternoon.
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Favorite artist...
I loved teaching the life of Henri Matisse. He was so diverse and adaptable. My first art crush was Norman Rockwell. I get lost in his story telling and technique. My heart always skips a beat when I stand in front of a Georgia O'Keeffe, her shapes, brush stroke and interpretation of nature are stunning. Anything from the Modern Art era. I grew up with an original Miro and Picasso in my home which enticed my appreciation.
03/
Favorite musician...
My taste for music changes all the time... right now I am listening to Andrew Galucki and Joshua Radin. I do love the Lumineers, Ellie Holcomb and anything Coffee House related.
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What draws you to people...
A good conversation!
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Guilty pleasure...
Sitting on the couch all day and reading a good book. Oh, I will never turn down anything with peanut butter and chocolate (especially ice cream).
