I feel very blessed to be part of a familial group of artistic women – a mother who was always painting or creating and encouraging us to do the same, a sister who can produce intricate drawings with such ease and whose whimsical paintings inspire me every day and another sister who can “paint” the most beautiful pictures with textiles and thread. There was a moment that had a profound impact on me when my mother took me to a Baroque Dresden exhibit at the Mississippi Museum of Art. It was then that I quietly decided I wanted to pursue painting. However, it took years for me to gather the courage to dive in and get started . Now, some of my most treasured moments are spent in my studio. I draw inspiration from all kinds of things – the captivating depth of color and light in a breathtaking sunset, the fun color combinations and shapes of Pucci fabrics, the list is endless. My artwork is a result of my emotions and experiences. It’s a reflection of who I am – sometimes reserved but free, cautious but confident, introspective but expressive. It can be both soothing and comforting, as well as disruptive and, hopefully, thought-provoking. Ultimately, I’d love for my work to inspire others to embrace their hidden passions and pursue what they secretly hold in their hearts.