Head of Woman, Charcoal, Mix Media

One notable thing that I am certain of is the fact is I need music during creating art. It allows me to relax and when it is too quite it actually becomes too difficult to create. My mind wanders on things like what are they saying in the hallway, or I’m hungry, thirsty and so on. Beyond that I feel I gather meaning, feeling and context to my work through the rhythm and lyrics. Music plays a rich and part of peoples lives and lyrics open my mind to images and keeps me from creatively fatiguing so quickly.

Drawn by Tennessee’s musical heritage, moved to Memphis in 1998. When I moved to Memphis I had the pleasure of living in a duplex in midtown. The landlord and co-habitant was Artist Robert Brady. Robert became a constant source of instruction and imparted much about his personal philosophies of life and art to me. Each day I still understand those words and themes on new levels.

While I attended school, at Memphis College of Art, I was able to work at the Art Center for three years. Working closely with other artist who were both experienced and established. The learning of materials not only came from co-workers like Greg Haller but also the costumers themselves. Many of who would pose questions about materials or be interested in using materials in a way not originally intended. Not only did this give me a solid base of knowledge about materials conventional uses but drive to push each material to maximum tolerance. At Memphis College of Art studied painting and computer animation. Participated in juried and faculty select shows. Achieved the coveted Most Dedicated Artist Award. Graduated in May 2001 with BFA and Art History minor.

After graduation and still at the Art Center meet Brother Spyridon, a Russian Orthodox monk whose specialty was painting iconography. Befriended Brother Spyridon raising my interest in spiritual symbolism. Keep in correspondence with him at his Alaskan monastery. Was chosen for a painting commission by Union Planters Bank.

In the summer of 2001 was taught hieroglyphs by Egyptian-Canadian Artist Nihal Mazloum. Scribed hieroglyph names for British Museum exhibit Eternal Egypt during its duration in Memphis. Artist in residence Second Annual Hot Springs Sidewalk Chalk Festival.

From 2002 to 2006 was a Flight Attendant for Mesaba Airlines. Traveled the world experiencing mass variety of cultures increasing understanding. Asked by Memphis Grizzlies to display work in VIP lounge during 2004 NBA season. In 2006 began to use art skills as a graphic designer. Worked with companies Sabertooth Games, Fantasy Flight Games, Microsoft, and Eddie Bauer.

Currently my work is on sale at Common Ground in Heber Springs, AR, Boxheart Gallery in Pittsburgh, PA, as well as Etsy.com