"The magic and wonder of the ocean has always captured my imagination”
As a child, I would spend my afternoons at the library, reading books about sea creatures and trying to draw them. Growing up in a family of limited means, I made my very first sketchbooks out of the fly-leafs of my fathers books. Recurring adventures of breathing underwater and exploring the ocean’s wonders alongside pods of whales filled my dreams at night. As I grew up, that childlike wonder was lost - crowded out by the pressures and pains of accumulated trauma. At the young age of 22, I almost died. Only a miraculous act could explain how I survived. God gave me a second chance at life and reawakened within my heart a sense of love, purpose, and wonder. The aquatic dreams returned, reminding me of a calling to pursue creating marine wildlife art. With the help of friends and family, I moved from the great up north to Florida in order to pursue a formal, representational art education and study local marine life.
Education
During my time in Florida, I completed both a Bachelors and Masters of Fine Arts Degree in Studio Art and Painting, and also studied with Master Atrtists such as Brian Jekel, Derek Penix, and Greg Beecham. Collaborating with conservation groups and becoming scuba certified worked hand-in-hand with my artistic studies to help me authentically connect with my subject matter, develop proficient artistic skills, and cultivate a unique voice and style.
How I Work
Primarily I Paint with Oils, blending palette knife and brush techniques to create a harmonious balance between accuracy and expression. This sensitivity guides my style, capturing an authentic experience of the underwater world’s energizing atmosphere, movement, color, and light. Through beauty, these aquatic portals serve to reawaken wonder and hope for all people.
Conservation
Collaborations with other wildlife artists, naturalists, marine biologists, and conservationists help continue to educate my understanding and appreciation for marine wildlife as well as create an avenue to support ocean conservation efforts through my artwork. Some of the organizations I have been pleased to partner with are the Coastal Conservation Association, 4Ocean, and the C.A.R.E. sea turtle recovery center.
Great Moments
Over the past several years, my work has garnered awards and international attention through museum and gallery exhibitions, press coverage by publications such as Southwest Art and Fine Art Connoisseur, and membership in prestigious artistic organizations such as The American Society of Marine Artists, The Society of Animal Artists, and The Oil Painters of America. These experiences have greatly enriched my artistic journey and have provided me with the opportunity to share the beauty of the underwater world with more people than I ever thought possible.
Where to find my art
Currently my work is represented by the Annapolis Marine Art Gallery, Curate 30A Gallery, Reinert Fine Art Gallery, and Holle Fine Art Gallery. Although a good portion of my work is gallery focused, I welcome commissioned work, which allows me to build a unique relationship with a collector. In my down time, I enjoy diving Florida’s springs, getting lost in a good book, or attempting to beat my husband at video games. Sam, who is also an artist, gives me constant support, love, and motivation. We currently make our home and studio in Northwest Florida with our dog, Neo.
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