About

"I taught myself to oil paint after a lifetime of hardship, depression and trauma. At what felt like my life's end, I found my new beginning.

I have Late Stage Lyme Disease, Endometriosis and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome; I could write a book by just listing the symptoms and medication side effects I deal with daily. My biggest hurdle through all of the illness has always been depression and suicidal ideations.

In 2020, my 30th birthday was nearing, and I was so tired of fighting the physical battle. I chose to end my life: picked the day and time, the location... the method. The day before my chosen date, however, the beautiful lush woods I had chosen near my house were completely cleared. I took that as my sign to hang on a little longer.

Shortly after, I decided I had nothing left to lose and decided to try something I just knew I'd be terrible at, but might enjoy. I ordered a $12 set of tiny oil paints on Amazon, and quickly became enthralled in the process, watching as many Youtube videos as I could and practicing any spare chance I had. I'd always been drawn to color, texture and antique oil paintings, and I'd always admired artists above anyone else. I made a decision to become the best artist I could, and in August 2021, I held my first impromptu art show at my retail shop.

I sold out of 46 paintings in 4 days.

It's been several years and I'm still in disbelief; that little "art show" gave me the confidence to continue not only to paint, but to teach my simplified, self-taught method to others. My oil painting classes quickly became sought-after and people traveled from all over the US to take them, booking them out months in advance. I was invited to teach in Europe twice a year, and still continue to do that. I teach others in the hopes it can save someone else the way it saved me.

Every step of my process is steeped in so much gratitude and humility; from laying down the first brushstroke to packing it for shipment, I say prayers of thanks as I touch your order slips. I read your kind messages on social media and screenshot them as reminders on my bad days.

My paintings are so much more than pretty images; they are cumulation of the love I've been shown, and the love I hope to continue to put forth into the world. I would be no where without my clients and supporters, and kindness all have shown me over the years.

I'm unable to hold a regular career due to my health; painting truly gave me a purpose I didn't think I'd ever be afforded. I am ever-inspired by changing skies, shifting shadows and the way darkness intermingles with light, somehow making it that much brighter. My works are painted from heavy emotions and stand as messages of hope, persistence and resiliency, so when you choose my art, you're not purely decorating; you're creating an atmosphere overflowing with those very reminders.

As an artist, I do not take that privilege for granted."