Curiosity and emotion will always be the driving force of my creative process, and often I feel like there isn’t enough time to experience everything that drives my curiosity. I have an innate desire to never stop learning. I am intrinsically motivated by what and with whom I can learn something new and not just learn it but understand it.

All the curiosities in my life have truly helped me grow as a visual artist, and they help ignite the spark from when I make that first brush of colour on the canvas. The world of abstract art is so open to expression. One painting of mine, may be an abstract landscape, another may lean into street art or graffiti, and yet another may be soft, subtle, bold, and riotous. In the words of Andy Warhol, “The World fascinates me.” – and it’s that feeling that shapes who I am as an individual.

A typical day in the studio begins with sitting outside, taking in the sights and sounds. My art studio is my favourite place, it’s my sanctuary, where I only allow the most positive thoughts and energy to enter.

Some days, there’s a drive and determination to get in and start creating immediately, and there is an inspiration I want to capture right away and put on canvas; other days, I may simply sit in my studio contemplating the options before me. I may have commissions in one corner, new creations beginning in another, and unfinished and somewhat forgone canvases in yet another corner. I never rush myself into creating. I strive for the most organic process, with no preconceived notions, maybe only the occasional inspiration that crept into my thoughts in the middle of the night. I’ve always had great patience, and my creative process is no different. I allow myself time and grace to put brush to canvas

I strive to live as authentically as I can, I want to be open, accepting, compassionate, and empathetic while making decisions that align with my identity. I see challenges as opportunities to put who I believe I am into action, not just words. Obstacles are a chance for learning and growth. I don’t always succeed, but I allow myself to make mistakes and hopefully learn which ones taught me a valuable lesson. I truly believe it matters most who you know yourself to be, and not who someone else perceives you to be, and I try to give that same grace to others.

What is your definition of artistic success?

I feel accomplished when creating my art for charities that have affected the lives of my family and friends. I feel accomplished when I see the smiles of my daughters and my husband when they see my latest work. They will forever be my biggest cheerleaders, gentler critics, and biggest promoters. I feel most accomplished in encouraging someone afraid to take that first step toward their dream, sharing my mistakes and wins, and showing that it is never too late to start pursuing a dream.

 I picked up a paintbrush for the first time in my early 40s, and I’ve never regretted taking a single step on this beautiful and, oftentimes, maddening journey. As the artist Georgia O’Keeffe famously declared, “You get whatever accomplishment you are willing to declare.”

Mentoring aspiring artists and encouraging them to embrace their individuality, sensitivity, and emotional depth has been rewarding. “If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life” has never rang truer to me.

My work as an interior designer and artist has truly evolved, and it feels as though the fusion of the two has come full circle. I have always looked at things through a “what if” lens. That has led me to much success as a commercial and residential interior designer, but it also fully engaged with the painter in me. My paintings are finding their way into homes and businesses, and they are finding a home in my design projects. Designing a home for someone is a deeply personal journey for my client, and our relationship grows throughout the process. My clients’ desire to have an original painting of mine in their home is a humbling experience. It is indescribable when I bring my client’s vision to life for their home and see my artwork hanging on their walls. It is humbling and exciting, and, as any creative person will tell you, it is validating to see someone love something you created enough to walk past it every day in the sanctuary of their home. Bringing a small part of my world into theirs is something I will never take for granted.

What are the biggest obstacles you’ve faced when improving your arts profession? What’s the one piece of advice that has helped you the most?

I want to continue my creative journey, push myself into unchartered territory, and fearlessly continue growing and creating. My career goal will constantly evolve, and no label defines what that looks like.

The VAA has been a safe space for me as an artist, where community and friendship with fellow artists feel palpable. To read another’s story and feel inspiration and encouragement, to gain wisdom and knowledge from fellow artists, to learn from artists who’s dedicated their life to their craft, to encourage someone who’s just starting their journey, I value the multitude of resources, tools, support, and training opportunities that the VAA provides. There is something new to learn daily, which has been curated thoughtfully all in one place. The VAA celebrates and understands the artist’s journey on an invaluable level. It is the mentorship of the VAA that has given me the courage to begin mentoring other artists. That in and of itself, has been an incredible gift of the VAA.

Is there anything you would like to say to the artist you were a year ago?