Connect What is your favorite type of art to create?

In my gallery I always tell people the same thing. I point to my large oil abstract expressionist paintings and say - I paint a lot of different styles, but this is my favorite kind of art to make. It allows the most creative expression while still requiring a lot of focus, design, and thought. You're looking at it with your 3rd eye - your eyes are transmitting directly to your soul. Painting these is like taking a journey without knowing the destination, but since you're in control, you decide

Where do you find inspiration?

From childhood I always loved to draw and tell stories. It was one of the activities I found genuine purpose and pleasure in - creating just seemed to put my mind to work in a good way. Growing up I visited many art museums and galleries with my parents when we travelled on vacation. At an early age I resonated with the loose, abstract, colorful paintings that had not subject matter. I loved them because I didn't know why I was attracted to them. That same mystery still inspires me today.

What would you do with $25,000?

Since July 2024, I've been a full time artist and gallery owner. Before this I made a living as a substitute teacher. I decided to take the risk of starting the art gallery because it just felt right - the door opened and I walked through. But ever since, my financials, both personal and business, have been on the cusp of being completely drained. This 25k would feel like the breakthrough I've been waiting for. Keeping my art gallery in business would be the main thing this money goes toward.