What is currently on your nightstand?
“Insurgent”, A Bible Study on Revelations, My water bottle, phone and watch charger, and a lamp ;)
Who is your biggest influence as an artist, and why?
My mental health. I paint as a form of therapy, finding so much joy and freedom in my battle with depression.
Tell us about your childhood. What is the most memorable moment as a young person?
I have twin younger brothers who are special needs. Their birth and survival is a miracle, and growing up with them was an absolute joy.
If you could only have one supply in your art studio, what would it be and why?
Soft pastels. I feel like within my practice, they’re the most versatile media I use. Wet, turns to watercolor, dry, gives you incredible texture.
What is your favorite room in your house?
My studio. :) I’m lucky enough to have a home studio in the front room of my house. The best part about it is the giant bay window that lets in amazing natural light. I love the fun shadows I get as the sun begins to set, late afternoon, casting window panes on my wall covered in paintings.
What is your biggest score online?
Probably ¢19 shorts I bought for my boys.
What is the benefit of buying art through a collective? What do you recommend for those that are new to buying original art?
You get a curated selection of quality work— allow yourself time to save for the large pieces— when you find something you connect with, it's worth investing in. Use art to inspire your space instead of finding “decor” that matches your curtains.
If you have the entire day to spend in an art museum, which one and why?
Anything contempoary or design focused. I went to a design museum in London that was incredibly inspiring— I love seeing things like chairs and vintage cameras as art.
What is your favorite hotel and what makes it special?
I’ve been to a few cute boutique hotels I loved. One in Athens, GA, Hotel Abacus, and one in Chattanooga, TN, the Dwell Hotel. What I love about both of them is the focus on art and design. They both have a beautiful blend of modern and mid-century elements that complement my personal aesthetic really well.
If you were a lipstick color would you be red, pink, or clear and why?
Clear…chapstick. I’m incredibly low maintenance when it comes to my apperance and preferances. All about comfortable and cozy…not much for flashy.
I can never get on a plane without….
a glass of red wine.
How did you get into the world of art?
It’s always been my dream. I was the 5-year-old who said she wanted to be an artist when she grew up. I took a lot of detours along the way, but while on bedrest with my third son, incredibly depressed and at one of the lowest points of my life, it finally clicked that I didn’t need to go to art school to make art a career. I left my career as a hairdressers and began fitting art into the margins of being a full-time mom. Never have I ever made a better decision (except for marrying my high school sweetheart and husband of 15 years).
What do you do to relax?
Nap. I’m a huge napper. I’d take one every day if there was time. I’m not talking about 15 minute snooze— I love a good 3 hour nap. If I’m not sleeping— just BEING with my husband and best friend is the most relaxing thing for me. No matter what we’re up to.
When do you get the biggest surge of inspiration?
Spring. I think as someone who gravitates toward florals and gets all her energy from WARM and sunshine, Spring is hopefully and energizing.
Prediction for the Color of 2026?
I think we’ll be back to dark green or peachy-oranges.
What is your idea of a date night? Dinner and a movie or dancing all night?
Delicious food and craft cocktails. A quiet place for good conversation.
Tell us about your favorite painting that you have created.
That’s incredibly difficult. My work is all extremely emotional and Iove many pieces for different reasons. That said, there is a piece from my very first complete collection of work in 2020 that tells my story of ashes to beauty in a unique way. It’s in my possession and I don’t know if I’ll ever sell it.
One piece of advice for buying original art?
Buy what you LOVE, not what “matches” your home. The work that speaks to you will transform your space into a place that brings you the most joy.
