This collection of mixed media paintings are an exploration on the topic of grief. My father passed away in March 2024, and I found myself struggling with creativity and with the emotions I was experiencing. This series is the output of what I learned and experienced during this time. Each piece includes the use of acrylic, vintage paper, watercolors, graphite, eco-dyed coffee filter, plaster, and collage. Looking closely at the open eyes, the viewer can just see glimpses of architectural window drawings behind them, reflecting that the eyes are the window to the soul. The backgrounds are muted in color, placing the focus on the faces themselves, and the faces are portrayed as "halves" to represent the feeling of incompleteness without our loved one. Each portrait in the series represents one of the many feelings involved in grief, as grief is not a single emotion, but rather a process we walk through.

I have created nine original mixed media pieces featuring a single Christmas tree with a star on a snowy backdrop with the word "Joy" captured in the landscape. These petite pieces (4.5" x 4.5") are originals, unique, and perfect for display on a table or in a holiday season vignette. No prints will be created for this series. I sign these on the back due to their small size. Note that these are framed pieces and you can see reflection in the pics due to the reflective cover.

This collection focuses on the fight against human trafficking, a cause that is important to me. Most Americans are unaware of the true nature of the fight at the southern border of our nation. This included me. After a discussion with Miguel of Sheepdog Initiative (https://therealsdi.com/), my eyes and my heart were opened to this cause. I paint these to draw attention to it and a portion of the sale of these originals goes to their organization.

These three pieces form a triptych: Joy, Strength, and Perseverance. Inspired by Colossians 1:9-11.