I have always had a passion for painting, designing, and creating, even as a child, and then a love for photography as I got older and could operate a camera. At a very young age, I was greatly influenced by my grandmother (Ruth Sally), whom I stayed with daily. She was an amazing artist and teacher and I learned a world of artistic wisdom and knowledge from her! I seek to learn new techniques and different methods by studying the work of painters and photographers whom I admire. They become my "virtual teachers." This knowledge, through practice and experimentation, becomes my personal quest for "independent study." My paintings are inspired not only by my photography, but also by my unrehearsed experiences along the way on this long, strange, but grateful, journey. The conversations and connections that are felt when talking to a complete stranger, remembering the smile you left them with is a simple pleasure and a lasting memory. I think these vibes or good feelings are essential to our physical and emotional well-being. These beautiful feelings and thoughts become my fire and inspiration for the next art piece! Other than photography and painting, I am passionate about finding people's natural beauty, travel and live music. To sit in front of a blank canvas, chill out with my golden retriever, turn on my music and create something beautiful from my heart and soul, is truly my happy place. Oftentimes if you look closely, you can find hidden within my paintings, a music note or a symbol giving reference to one of my favorite musicians/bands. My favorite media to paint with is acrylic, oil, ink, epoxy and mixed media. I live on a farm in NC and I feel blessed to have extraordinary scenery to photograph when I am not traveling. I also enjoy medical aesthetics and teaching. I have worked in healthcare for many years and have met so many wonderful people along the way who have greatly inspired my art!