I’m not a trained artist, but I’ve had a passion for it my entire life. In 2021, I founded The Untrained Edit, a shared art gallery and studio for other artists and makers to utilize.  A year later, at 45 years old, I began painting. My work is a reflection of the life I’ve lived: it’s layered and messy and unpredictable and colorful. I have attempted painting many times over many years, but it never resonated for me until I learned that it’s ok, and, in my case, ESSENTIAL to slow down, take it one brushstroke at a time, and throw the plan out the window. I like to call myself an “exploring artist.” I’m still learning what mediums I like best – which will always be the ones that create the most interesting layers. Visually, I’ve always been drawn to contrasting lines and colors. When I paint, I am compelled to combine the unexpected, even if it doesn’t make sense. Because that’s what makes sense to me.

I use acrylic paint, oil pastels, textured paper, and modeling paste to create images formed from layers and texture applied to both canvas and board, frequently framed with vintage and upcycled frames. My first layer is always composed of unexpected color combinations. I apply with energy and allow those colors to lead to the next step. I then create boundaries to contain and enhance the color and give myself something to respond to.

My art is described by others in many ways: playful, fun, whimsical, creepy (lol).... And I agree with all of that! 

I create art that I want to look at every day.  It's not for everyone.  It's for those who like to imagine a story; for those who appreciate small nuances, like an unexpected mark or a color that clashes (in the best kind of way); and for those who want to FEEL something when they look at it.