Greetings .

About

, My art is for dreamers; for those who savor symbols and like to discover the deeper story. My art is for those who would be captivated by a single ray of sunshine and happily bring it home to hang next to their favorite chair. My art is for those who long for the wide open path, winding through big trees, offering glimpses of unexpected wildness, vivid skies, and unexpected encounters with magical creatures.

Methods: My most treasured way to create a painting is through layers of writing, color, marks, and shapes. I let my subconscious play and eventually a central figure or theme will rise to the surface. I do my best to step aside and make room for what it wants, what colors it asks for, gently creating its world. I listen for the character’s message and help it materialize by subtracting, adding, and bringing in more light or shadow until it feels complete. This is how I approach my larger paintings- by allowing them to emerge intuitively. The random occurrences in paint textures and colors that result form a visual story more outrageous and free than I could plan. They are dreams become visible and worlds of their own.

Series paintings are concept-based. As an artist, I have a million ideas I'd like to explore, but choose to work through a focused, yet evolving series.

Random fact about me? I have synesthesia, which is a mild cross-sensory condition. My brain has me seeing colors when I hear music and tasting colors that I view. I had no idea that others didn't experience color as a mouth sensation until one specific art event, when folks noticed I was describing every piece in terms one would use to talk about a dish. Naturally, I believe art, food, and happiness belong together.

Background: I received my BA in Theater Arts- Costuming from the University of Oregon, with a study abroad program in London that included attending 43 productions and private study at the Victoria and Albert Museum. I have worked at various jobs, and created several businesses over the years, with a common thread: my fascination with color, narrative, and wearable art. I am the designer and CEO of Nettles Jewelry, selling to galleries and museums across the US and Canada. There are several pieces from my Peaceable Kingdom painted line here in my art website.

Shows: My paintings have been part of Eugene ArtWalk, Springfield ArtWalk, Whitaker ArtWalk, and solo shows in Townsend Tea, Alan Brothers Coffee, Morning Glory Cafe, Coffee Roasters, Cafe Soriah, Flux Crystal Gallery (all places I enjoy spending time in!) over the last 8 years. I like to take commissions in between larger projects.

Life: In between grand adventures, I’m happily residing in Eugene, Oregon, with my two sons, our adorably large rabbit, fat orange cat, and tiny dog. I like to hike and kayak, then knit to relax. I am yearning for return visit to Ireland.

Art goals: With this new website, my goal is to be able to offer my art to a greater audience, to fulfill my dear, beloved (nagging) friends’ wishes to get their hands on their fav prints, and for the galleries who carry my jewelry line to consider carrying my paintings as well.