How did my artist journey start? The first time I painted, I felt an amazing rush as the emotions and images were taking shape on the canvas. Over the years, I’ve realized it’s not always that easy – some days multiple paintings seem to pour out of me while other days I think my work feels like just scratch marks. I have come to appreciate the journey of creating art as a type of therapeutic exercise that can teach patience, bring great joy, and inspiration.

I have an ongoing internal creative dialogue with myself– thoughts and flashes of images and colors – all blending together and moving around. Of course, they are swayed by how I’m feeling at any given moment, which is why I view abstract paintings as a manifestation of emotions. I have always loved the freedom of creating and interpreting abstract art. The way abstract art captures different emotions and memories is so alluring and fascinating to me.

I have found gardening to be a great inspiration: all the colors of nature next to each other and so beautiful. The inspiration comes from the beauty of flowers, but also from the tranquility derived from working with the plants and earth. As I reflect on my paintings, I see a couple of series that have developed. A study on the cross-section of a forest, a fantastic blend of colors evoking a huge blend of multicolored flower petals, and an abstract landscape capturing my emotions in color.

Over the years, a quote from Saint Francis de Sales continues to resonate with me “Have patience with all things, but first of all with yourself”. I seem to tell myself this frequently and it has become my go-to advice on many occasions when friends seek help. It seems this patience has allowed my mind and soul to develop the thoughts and emotions that inspire me to create this work of art. My passion for creating abstract art compels me to paint every day. My greatest joy is completing a painting that reflects that passion and being able to share that passion with you.

Describe your art in three words. 

Colorful, Warm, Emotional.

Describe yourself in one word. 

Grateful.

What do you love the most about creating art in New Orleans? What particular part of your immediate environment, in your neighborhood specifically influences your work? 

The garden in my yard and the wonderful landscaping, gardens, and wild areas of the Northshore.

Describe your creative process. Are there any rituals or rites of passage you exercise before you begin a new piece?

I usually have an idea in my mind around emotions and colors and then work in layers upon layers of paint until I feel the piece is finished.

Where do you draw inspiration?

Nature.

Who are your artistic influences or gurus?

Gerhard Richter.

In New Orleans, art and music go hand in hand. What type of music, band or song lyric best describes your work?

I don't know if I would use music to describe my work but music definitely inspires me when I'm painting. Lately, I love listening to early Madonna and recent Rick Astley songs, and then sometimes the only thing I can listen to in the studio is Baroque music - especially string pieces.

Where can we find you when you are not creating art?

At my day job or in the garden.

What is your favorite time of day/day of the week/month of the year?

Time of Day - early morning

Week/Month - November through March

What is something people don’t know about you? A fun fact.

I love pretending to be able to sing opera to my two mini Goldendoodles, Oliver and Gabrielle.

All works listed online are available to be viewed at Where Y’Art Gallery by appointment.

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