My name is Irene Gallion. I’m a visual artist born and raised in Natchitoches, La. I currently reside in Shreveport, La. I’ve been creating since I was in the fourth grade. As a child I watched my dad paint beautiful signs for local businesses around Natchitoches. In high school I started hand painting clothes for any and everyone that would allow me to. I truly begin my visual art career in 2016 when I moved to Fort Worth, Tx. I participated in several art shows in Dallas which made me realize my voice in this world. I create because it gives me the freedom to say whatever I want without actually having to open my mouth. My favorite medium to use is acrylic and spray paint. I enjoy painting cartoons from the 80’s, 90’s, portraits of people from the local community while putting them in real life situations. I use bright colors even when creating emotional pieces. I want people to know that even in their darker days it’s always something to smile about. In July of 2018 I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease called Stills disease. Out of nowhere my life stopped for a year. Not knowing if I would ever create again almost made me give up on life then I remembered my reasoning for creating is to give people hope and encouragement. After being sick for a year I had my first solo art show titled “Me Myself & Irene” in Shreveport, La year 2019. My art gives me the strength to persevere through any obstacle life tries to throw at me. That’s the message I like to send through my art. Just because your going through a difficult time doesn’t mean to stop living but to enjoy this beautiful life we were given for the time being.