I’ve always been drawn to the mystery and beauty of wild spaces in nature. Our relationship with nature inspires my art, especially being a mother in the age of climate change.
I studied painting at the University of Houston where I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting and a Master of Curriculum & Instruction in Art Education. I studied Art History and Drawing in Florence, Italy which was a dream come true since my ancestry is all Italian.
I also lived in Mexico where I used art to teach English to 4th grade students. Both countries deeply inspired my creative path as an artist and teacher!
It’s no surprise as an artist that I’m a sensitive introvert. Growing up I struggled with debilitating anxiety where I felt so physically ill I couldn’t even leave my house. But there was this part of me that also yearned to travel and explore!
Through education, nutrition, and yoga I was able to manage the anxiety. And through art and spending time with nature, I was able to transform that buzzing internal energy into something that felt good and meaningful.
When I had my two sons, I loved being a mom, but anxiety struck again leaving me feeling drained and longing to make art. I had this idea of creating a little studio for them to make art next to me. Well…they proceeded to climb me and throw all the art supplies!
So, we spent most of our time at the park. Building with sticks, looking for colorful leaves, and climbing trees. That’s when I remembered how exploring in nature revives and inspires us!
While spending time in nature with my sons, my mind was flooded with ideas for art. And that turned into a passion to guide others to a deeper connection with nature through walking, drawing, and watercolors.