About

As a contemporary visual artist and therapist, my work delves into the unique vulnerabilities that shape us. I am captivated by the flaws and cracks in our foundations that foster growth and resilience. My evocative, textured artworks convey strength through their seemingly fragile appearance.

Raised on a rural Washington farm, I found early inspiration in nature’s varied textures and shades. Despite my love for ceramics in high school, rigid gender stereotypes and a conservative upbringing stifled my artistic pursuits. As a gay child avoiding discovery, I distanced myself from art.

At 20, I came out to my mother and grandmother. My mother’s acceptance was a relief, but my grandmother’s critical response created a lasting rift. Processing these emotions led me back to art, where I used textured materials like sand, pebbles, and coffee grounds in acrylic paint to create tactile, sculptural pieces. This allowed me to carve out a space where I could be my true self.

In 2017, I sold my first piece, marking a significant milestone. Around this time, my interest in therapy grew, challenging my belief in facing problems alone. Studying Marriage and Family Therapy at Antioch University, I learned the value of collaborative problem-solving. Art expressed my deep emotions without words, while therapy provided tools for healthy relationships.

In April 2021, I opened my private practice, Foundations Healing, specializing in LGBTQIA+ couples. My art and therapy work aim to help others find visibility, understanding, and belonging in an often unwelcoming world. By sharing my journey and vulnerabilities, I hope to inspire others to embrace their own paths toward healing and self-discovery.

ARTIST STATEMENT

Creating art is my journey of self-discovery and healing. Each brushstroke is an act of courage, a manifestation of deep-seated emotions. Art allows me to transform past demons into beauty, leading me to a place of calm and serenity.

Throughout much of my life, I felt lost and disconnected, searching for my place in the world. Art became my beacon of hope, helping me reclaim my power and find meaning amidst chaos.

The "Foundation" series is a testament to this transformation. By delving into my emotions, I built something new from the hardships of my past. Each painting confronts my fears and insecurities, channeling them into raw and powerful expressions. These works represent my journey toward self-acceptance and self-love.

I hope viewers see themselves in my work, feeling the emotions I’ve poured into each piece. My goal is to inspire others to find meaning and beauty in their struggles, encouraging them to trust in their own journey toward healing and self-discovery.