Figure Drawing & Painting, in charcoal and in watercolor are my first choice when I'm in the flow. Watercolor cityscapes and landscapes are my next favorite (plein air preferred). During the pandemic, my mom fell, broke her pelvis and started a downward spiral. I traveled home frequently to try and give my sisters a break from mom-care. I taught myself to make digital watercolors in Procreate on my iPad while I was sitting with mom. Next, I really want to start working with pastels.

Everywhere! Honestly! I've been drawing and painting since the age of 3... I have a hyper-growth genetic birth defect in my right hand. My mom tried to make me a lefty by sitting me down with a chalkboard, or crayons to help develop my fine motor skills... But I'm still a 'righty' 🤷🏼‍♂️ I find inspiration hiking in nature, walking & exploring cities, and in conversations with people. Throughout history, the Arts have always shone the light that has brought us through the darkest of times.

I serve on the boards of directors of several regional Arts organizations. I am planning to start offering visual arts & art biz workshops through nonprofit organizations for semi-pro & professional artists in the Starved Rock region of North Central Illinois. So much amazing talent in this region! If I were to win the $25k, I would use a portion to help establish these programs & workshops for our community.