MY STORY
Art for a Thriving Life
I grew up wandering the woods of Illinois with my Dad. He instilled in me a love of being outside, exploring and learning about local plants, history, and culture. When I moved to Seattle, I transferred that love of exploring to new landscapes. My paintings, drawings, and installations explore the connection between humans and nature, for mutual benefit and wellness of our shared ecology. I hope through my art to help viewers and collectors reconnect with nature for joy, wellness, and conservation.
A portion of my proceeds go to support intersectional conservation and social justice organizations.
I exhibit my work at my Ballard studio, and at local art festivals, markets, and galleries. For upcoming events, please visit the Events tab.
ECO-MATERIALS
I'm an oil painter, and I seek to use natural, non-toxic and plastic-free materials for the majority of my work. I work primarily with walnut-oil based paints, soy-based solvent, and cotton or birch supports. I'm phasing out standard acrylic gesso, which has a plastic base, in favor of marble dust gesso. Add eco-art to your healthy home!
MY PROCESS
I walk almost daily, whether it's in my neighborhood, urban parks, or on a more remote trail. I love spending time outside, collecting inspiration, and a little exercise... I sketch and do small plein air (outdoor painting) studies when I can, and take a ton of photographs on my phone. I then work on larger paintings in my studio, based on this assemblage of inspiration to create an expression of a specific place or mood.
COMMISSIONS
I also create commissions, and can create art for you that incorporates a favorite local hiking spot, your garden landscape, or specific colors or sizes. Please explore my art and let me know if you are interested in discussing a custom artwork.
EXHIBITS & AWARDS
Selected shows, grants, and awards:
City of Seattle smART Grant, 2023
Holiday Group Show, Shorelake Art Gallery, Shoreline, WA, 2022
Siderails Collective Holiday Art Mart, Seattle, WA, 2022
INTERSATE Juried Group Exhibit, Sarah Spurgeon Gallery, Ellensburg, WA 2019
Art & Flowers Juried Competition, Honorable Mention, Ellington White Contemporary, Fayetville, NC, 2017
Salish Sea Conference Art Exhibit, WA State Convention Center, Seattle, WA, 2015
Skyfeeder installation, Heaven & Earth 6 Outdoor Art Exhibit, Carkeek Park, Seattle, WA, 2014
Group show, Allied Arts Gallery, Yakima, WA, 2011
City of Seattle smART Grant, 2010