What do you aim to say by the themes in your art?

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My work touches upon my role as a woman, mother, and my life in this world as well as in an
imagined world. I explore being in altered or unusual states as well as being held captive within imagined and real bottles or cages. I draw upon a cast of characters I have developed who may have undergone a transformation or metamorphosis. I tinker with reimagining and combining everyday objects, insects, animals, and humans in different ways and in various settings.

Where does your inspiration come from?

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Recently I have been investigating flora and fauna. The plants, animals, birds, and insects I share my home, garden, and neighborhood with and how they interact are particularly inspiring to me. Looking at artwork of all kinds is very motivating for me.

Do you have any experiences that have impacted your art?

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Much of my recent work was created after I escaped an abusive relationship into a new honest, safer, and healthier world. Out of despair, discomfort and demise come renewal, rebirth, and redemption. Creatively reflecting on personal challenges helps shed light on what has occurred. Much of my current work is hopeful and has a lighthearted playful nature.

Do you feel your art challenges existing barriers?

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Truth-telling is important. I make honest art that touches upon my personal experiences and stories. My work carried me through my experience of being abused and the journey I made into the present. Autobiographical art and the visual representations of difficult subjects can open pathways to personal understanding and healing and viewing my art may be cathartic for others.

 What advice do you have for aspiring artists?

 

A life lived with creativity and the arts is exciting and captivating. Finding time for art-making in a busy world can be a challenge. It is ok if your creative practice ebbs and flows. There may be periods in life when you are not always so productive but during those times you can still think about, study, and be supportive of the arts. Having a dialogue with your personal creative output as it changes and evolves is a lifelong pursuit. Make what you want to make for your own revelation and pleasure. I examine my past work and see it as a visual map or diary that is available to return to for discovery and inspiration.