The Gift of Who I Am

I have been a chameleon my whole life - mostly invisible until I was needed.

This allowed me to be observant and to listen. I have an ability to truly see people and understand what appeals to them. My art catches feelings and moments, and my gift is knowing which feelings and moments to put together so that they resonate with people. I can always find the heart of what I’m working on.

I am strong, fierce, tenacious, dramatic and emotional. I translate these qualities into art that calls to your spirit. Art that you want to get lost in. Art that you feel pulled to return to. My art is the home we all carry in our hearts. It makes you feel like you’re home no matter where you are. 

Because of that, I don’t aim for my art to be in a gallery or a museum. I want my art to be on the walls of your homes, where you can really feel the joy, peacefulness and calm that I cultivate in my studio.

The Heart of the Matter

I have the ability to see past all of the noise and clutter, find the pure intention and emotion in the work and then convey it to the viewer.

My earlier art practice in textiles really set me up for this gift. I used to recover and refurbish chairs and other furniture. I would work with my family, and we would make cushions and drapery. I’m skilled with a sewing machine, making designs and patterns. I can put it all together from start to finish and just know that it will work.

When it comes to commissions, I make them very personal to the collector. For example, if I’m using a reference photo for a pet commision, I always pull other elements in the background of the photo and include them in the painting. This way, the collector doesn’t just get a painting of their pet. They get a painting of a moment in time - an everlasting memory to hang on their walls.

If I don’t know the person requesting a commission, I only need to ask them a few questions to find out what would appeal to them. I can take a very limited amount of information and turn it into meaningful art.

Truth be told, all of the art that I paint is really for me, and then I get to share it with you. It’s a way to share myself with you. 

This is my gift. To open The Opal Door and invite you inside. You are welcome and loved here.