My favorite type of art to create is pyrography or wood burning art of loved ones who have passed on. I view it as a way of burning their memories into wood forever as a heartfelt reminder of their impact and presence that once graced our lives. Losing a loved one and dealing with the inevitable grief is difficult for everyone. I believe that my artwork helps to ease that pain and provide a meaningful piece of artwork to be viewed for years to come.

I find inspiration from relationships of loved ones to create meaningful portraits of loved ones who passed on. My first pyrography portraits were of my own family members who passed on. By sharing those portraits it inspired others to place orders with me to have their own portraits of their loved ones burnt onto wood.

If I was awarded the $25,000 I would use it to purchase upgraded pyrography equipment. I would also invest it more in my small business. I own and operate an artist consignment shop in the local community where I sell other local artists work. I also lead various artistic workshops to provide a local art community where other locals can come out and express themselves creatively. The $25,000 would greatly impact that business by being able to afford more art supplies to lead even more classes.