Explorer + Creative
My mother would tell you that I’ve been a studious, curious person since I was very young. My head was always in the clouds, yes, but in my head I was identifying and learning all the cloud shapes and types. I’m endlessly curious, and any kind of science is my jam. Healthcare seemed to offer my science-brain and big heart a great match; and it did for a decade. Then I witnessed the endless array of problems with our healthcare system and social determinants of health, and it became so maddening I couldn’t do it anymore. My own health was suffering. My creativity was always important to me and brought so much joy. Starting an art business was always in the plans, it just happened much sooner than I imagined. I have my steadfast husband to thank for gently prodding me to veer in this new direction.
But something magical has been happening ever since I said yes to this new journey. The initial stage I call my ‘molting’ stage was quiet, frustrating, and awkward. I didn’t know what kind of art I really wanted to make or what wanted to come forth. It's been a slow kind of healing.
As I kept showing up to build my business and create work, it’s like the work showed up for me. The universe started dropping some major breadcrumbs on the trail, and I followed. Books, visuals, words, ideas, new classes I took, led me along—and what did I circle back to? Science, healing, and relationship with the earth. Today my practice focuses on ecology, natural history, and folklore. I create works on canvas with hand drawn subject matter, forage and cook wild ink, and print with plants. I keep learning, and sharing my explorations.
Craftsman + Visionary
With more than a decade of fine woodworking experience, Matthew is a true craftsman and artisan. He is the engineer behind many studio projects and creates beautiful frames for the artworks. he runs his own business full-time and makes our family a priority. He is an ultimate supporter and visionary and has helped with founding the studio in every way.
Artist Statement
My work is guided by connection with the earth, the Land. The earth is very much alive and intelligently designed, beyond the typical human-centric ways of perceiving. I am learning to trust my heart and gut, for the earth doesn't communicate the way we do.
I want to tell the stories of other non-human beings, and challenge the narratives that disconnect us from the earth. Every painting, every series is a celebration and elevation of these elder kin and their stories. Every ink and ink painting created are both inquiries and wild discoveries, magic in the mundane.
The earth has so much to say, so much to teach us, if we are willing to listen deeply and in new ways.
Artist Mission
What and how I create is directly connected to the land, shifting and evolving. I was built for deep inquiry, listening, and sensing subtlety while also seeing broadly--zoom in, zoom out, repeat.
As I continue learning the stories and multifaceted identities of living beings, ecosystems and how I can be a better human in it, I hope to convey what I value: sensitivity, humility, nurturing, reciprocity, and wonder.
I continue mapping the terrain of outer and inner landscapes--and sharing what comes through.
