I grew up in the mountains where the Sierra range ends and the Cascade Range begins. A valley remote and far away from any city. From there, I moved to Humboldt County to receive my Bachelor of Arts in Theatre. Many moves later, I have landed back in my beloved Northern California, where the natural landscapes, green pastures, multi-species forests, ocean views with dramatic cliffs, and wild animals abound. Everywhere you look is inspiration for bright, colorful, and unencumbered creativity. 

 

I began exploring mixed media art during the COVID-19 lockdown. I found rather quickly that creating images on paper spoke to me on a level I had not experienced before. I would work late into the evening creating women’s shapes and faces that looked back at me while I spent hours trying to tell their stories. Mindful and healing, these women were all a different part of me that would aid in my path to healing from severe CPTSD. A disorder that had been diagnosed a few years prior. 

 

In exploring different media types, I discovered Alcohol Inks, and in these, I have found my match. This medium is nothing short of magical. Tiny vials of brilliant colors that move and fractionate into multiple shapes and shades. There is a beautiful relationship with working with the Alcohol inks. They are not easily controlled. They have their own story. I, too, have my own ideas going into the process; in this, we  compromise. Be it a flowing underwater scene, a floral, or an open landscape, they have taught me so much about letting go of preconceived notions of perfection and accepting my unique experiences. The outcome is always a free, loose, wild, and colorful creation that speaks a vibrancy to an unencumbered and joyful life.