Artist Statement

I began art classes at Skagit Valley College in 1997, wanting to pursue techniques in watercolor. I took a watercolor class with Kristen Theiss , which is when I began telling stories through portraits. Since then I have become interested in acrylic as a medium, under the instruction of Mary Iverson and have not looked back. I so enjoy the acrylic medium, and my ability to manipulate the paint. The tones are rich and beholds a strong tone quality that suits my subject matter.

My paintings are portraits of people who come from unfortunate, oppressive countries. Countries that offer little opportunity to their people. It is my goal to illuminate these people, using their stories and portray them as purposeful, beautiful, and integral to the fabric of life in the cultures form which they originate. I am passionate to tell their stories by focusing on their personal inner landscape of brokenness yet highlight their self worth.

It is also my desire to bring a realness to the eyes in particular, to draw the viewer in, for the viewer to see the person as human and to allow the person in the portrait to be seen.

I grew up in Venice Beach California, an artists mecca, where I was exposed to the arts, fine art, performing arts, and cultures and religions, of all types. I am comfortable with diverse ethnicity and know the importance of history in the cultures where people come from.

I am pursuing an AVA degree at Skagit Valley College and this spring quarter I am taking part in an independent study coarse and will travel to India to continue a personal connection with the people and their lifestyle. In the end it is my desire to create a strong impact through the personal portraits I paint from the people I meet