BEHIND THE PAINTINGS

Embracing the Unexpected in Life and Art

Life has a way of reshaping the paths we think we’ll follow. I’ve learned to embrace the unexpected—both in my journey and in my art. Letting go of rigid expectations has freed me to create with instinct and emotion, allowing each piece to unfold in its own time, often blurring the line between clarity and abstraction.

My work bridges two connected styles: semi-abstract landscapes and vibrant abstract compositions. Using acrylic and pencil, I layer bold textures, subtle colors, and dynamic patterns to craft paintings that balance spontaneity and structure. Inspired by my Colorado roots, years spent by the ocean, and Idaho’s diverse landscapes, I draw on these experiences to explore the interplay between natural beauty and abstraction.

Art has always been in my blood. My mother, a professional artist, sparked my passion for creativity—a passion I carried into a graphic design career after earning my BFA from Colorado State University. I eventually became a creative director at a craft brewery and co-owned an artisan cheesemaking business. From these diverse roles, I learned to merge precision with playfulness, a balance that informs every piece I create. Now, painting allows me to return to my roots, creating works that reflect life’s surprises and add a little beauty to the everyday.

"Starting an art career in my 50s wasn’t the path I imagined, but it’s the one that feels right—shaped by years of life, lessons, and stories waiting to be told on canvas."