“My art explores small, simple moments, set within the web of the complex human experience.”
If my life were described as a busy 5 lane highway (and often this is an all too accurate portrayal), the parts where I’m creating art would be the scenic rest stops. In my studio, I get that same feeling – like I’ve climbed out of the car, had a good stretch, and actually took a look around me. I might start out a little tight and rusty, but before you know it, I’m barefoot in the grass, checking out the vista and reflecting on what’s important to me…and of course, I’m taking in the people around me. Just to be clear, being an artist isn’t always easy. I agonize over decisions and I’m wildly inefficient, with “trial and error” playing a key role in my process. The many layers in my work are evidence of this. But even though it isn’t effortless, creating something that has never existed before feeds my soul and gives me a sense of ease. My studio is a place where I can consistently solve problems, make up stories, and feel connected.
My characters come from my own experience as a human but also from little moments that I’ve observed in those around me. As these characters come to life, their stories take shape. My previous work in healthcare, psychology and education were all in part driven by my interest in the experience of emotional connection with others, and so it’s no surprise that these themes permeate my artwork.
I’m interested in the complex stories behind individual human experiences. I’m drawn to the contrast between colors, emotions, and experiences. I create beings meant to invite engagement. My hope is that when others view my work, they too can experience a moment of pause, a spark of emotion, and the underlying current of connection.
Examples of My Work
Olympian
I’m pretty sure I could medal if Apres-Skiing, Lazy River Navigation, or Dessert Consumption were official events.
Words
I love interesting words (ex. defenestrate, verb – to throw someone out a window), made-up words (“grumbly” has a better ring to it than “garbage disposal”), and bad words (they said I couldn’t give examples).
Classy
When Natalie Merchant personally serenaded me, I forgot how to speak, stepped in someone’s nachos, and sweat through my jeans.
Surprise Endings
The Chief Inspector Armand Gamache series, by Louise Penny is my all-time favorite. It’s categorized under Murder Mysteries, but really is about character development, and the complexity of the human heart.
Lyrics
I know almost all the words to Hamilton, Les Miserables, Oklahoma, Dear Evan Hansen, Phantom of the Opera, Six, Hadestown, Greatest Showman, Sweeny Todd and many others. I cannot, however, remember a grocery list of more than 3 items.