Although it seems like yesterday, it's been a decade since my mom, (my very best friend and mentor) passed away from Alzheimer’s disease. In her final months, she lost her ability to verbally communicate; however, though words failed us, I knew that something must still speak. I learned at this point that when words fail, images and art speaks. Creative signs of affection and drawings became my primary form of communication. A picture became worth a thousand words and a lifetime of love.

My painting practice was influenced by and continues to flourish out of a need to communicate and to express joy, love and compassion. It remains a daily labor of love. I truly believe that art shines a light and speaks, some days as a delicate whisper; other days it is a mighty roar. Regardless, I listen to this voice, as I truly believe that light shines a light, and is the only form of expression that speaks unwaveringly!

I have great compassion for animals and our planet. When you purchase a painting or online workshop, I'll be donating a portion of the proceeds to a worthy cause to help and protect animals in need or help save our planet from further destruction. As an active member of HeARTs Speak, an international nonprofit organization that is uniting art and advocacy to increase the visibility of shelter animals, it brings me joy to make a donation to them or another one of my favorite organizations who are helping protect animals and our environment.

Listen to your inner voice, rediscover the child that lives within you, be curious and brave, break a few rules along the way and follow your dreams with kindness and a revolution in your heart. The rest will take care of itself.