“Creativity takes courage.”
About the Artist
I am an artist living in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. I have always loved animals, the outdoors, and sharing my life with dogs, which is why I find the greatest joy in creating artwork that features pets, wildlife, and landscapes. I hope that care and respect for animals comes through in my work, as I strive to capture the heart and spirit of each subject I draw.
My artistic inspirations include Vincent van Gogh and the painters of the Hudson River School. I am drawn to both Impressionist and Realist traditions. While I often find myself absorbed in fine details, much like Realist artists, I deeply admire the Impressionists’ use of light and atmosphere.
I currently work primarily in soft pastels and colored pencils. Each medium offers distinct advantages, and combining materials allows me greater flexibility and creativity when rendering a piece.
Previously, I have worked as an environmental scientist and a teacher. Both of these backgrounds strongly influence my work. My curiosity about the natural world originally led me to study biology, and I continue to bring a scientific mindset into my art by experimenting with techniques and materials to better reveal the beauty of nature.
Teaching has taught me how to communicate information to others, and I enjoy sharing what I’ve learned with fellow artists. On my blog, I write about techniques and products that have worked well for me, to break down the overwhelming amount of information online into useful insights.
If you enjoy my work, I would be honored to create a piece you can enjoy for years to come. While I often receive requests for pet portraits, I also love drawing wildlife, people, and landscapes. Please visit my Pricing page for general information, and feel free to reach out with any questions using the contact button below.
Thank you for visiting my website.
