Connect What is your favorite type of art to create?

I aim to create art that is not only fun to look at, but also carries purpose—a spiritual awakening, a spark of curiosity you may have forgotten you had. Color and contrast play a huge role in my work. Bright, bold pieces act as a spyglass into how I see the world. I’m detail-oriented by nature, so I build layers upon layers of texture and meaning. I want my work to feel endless, like two mirrors reflecting forever—dreamlike motion, invisible tears, visible power, in real detail that lingers.

Where do you find inspiration?

I find inspiration in past experiences, lessons learned, and learning to cope with current emotions and life itself. I’ve moved many times with my mother, collecting experiences that shaped an adventurous, and at times confused, perspective. Creating became the way I confront that perplexity—a way to remember how to breathe again. I often feel like ‘Alice’ in a world of playing cards, trying to brighten reality and show it from different angles.

What would you do with $25,000?

With the awarded funds, I would pay off rent, move somewhere with a yard, so my dog can finally run free, and create breathing room to step away from bartending. I started my LLC this past year, and this would give me the time, equipment, and resources to fully invest in my art business. More than money, it would buy time: time to build, create, heal, and pursue the life I know I'm meant for with intention.