I love working with oil paints and drawing inspiration from nature. I’m especially drawn to creating pieces that feel almost 3D—like you can step right into them. I use vibrant colors to make my work really stand out and pull people in. When my friends look at my art, I want them to feel like they’re part of the experience. My art is a statement from me to you—when you look at it, it’s looking right back at you.

My inspiration comes from nature, but also from within—my mind, my heart, and my emotions. I create what feels true to me, what makes sense in the moment. I started painting during a really difficult time in my life, when I was going through a divorce. I felt alone, far from my family and friends, in an unfamiliar place. In that space, I turned inward—and upward. My faith became my strength. I remember the day my doctor suggested antidepressants. I smiled and, with humility, told him I was ok

I am the breadwinner for my family. I live in Canada, but I’m originally from Sri Lanka. If I had $25,000, my biggest wish would be to visit my mom. My dad always wanted me to come see him, but sadly, he passed away before I could. Now, my mom is all I have. She’s 70 years old, and I dream of the day I can hold her, kiss her hand, and say, “Mom, I came to see you.” It hasn’t been easy balancing responsibilities, work, and the cost of travel. Twenty-six years is a long time to be away from family