I started drawing as a child, the way many kids do—pencils always nearby, filling margins and scraps of paper with little sketches. Drawing and creating was a companion during my childhood and adolescent years. But after high school, life grew busy, and somewhere along the way I basically stopped drawing. College, work, and responsibility took over, and creativity was set aside.
Two years ago, shortly after having a kidney transplant, I realized I needed something just for me. That’s when I picked up a paintbrush and began painting. I’m completely self-taught, learning through trial, error, and the simple joy of experimentation, along with a few online tutorials. By day, I’m a high school English teacher and have served in public education for over 20 years, guiding students through stories and ideas. Painting has became my own form of expression, a way to create something tangible. I paint because I enjoy creating things that make me happy—and if my work makes someone else happy, well I am happy to share it.
