An exploration of the tension between our inner lives and the external forces that shape us.

Layered textures, bold strokes, and moments of chaos and stillness.

Artist Statement

I was always an artist. Even when I felt surrounded by chaos and unwelcomed in the world, I was an artist. I was an artist as a child when I couldn’t write my name, but I could paint it. I was an artist in elementary school when I was scared of the people around me but still put effort into every assignment. When I doubted my artwork was any good because I thought the other kids were better, I was still an artist. I was an artist when none of my paintings or drawings made it to the refrigerator. I was an artist when I dreamed at night and couldn’t make sense of the images. I was an artist when I denied myself choosing art because in my family that lifestyle does not exist. As I kept quiet as a child and teenager wondering what I needed to release all this rage because I was not good at math, so I thought my future was history, I was still an artist. I was an artist when I drifted from school to career, from school to career, and on repeat until I realized—finally–that I truly have a gift. My work is emotional, intuitive, transformative, and layered— just like my life and how I approach all of my artistic endeavors. My art is deep. It is truth. I use tools such as acrylic paint, oil pastels, modeling paste, stage blood, glitter, screws and whatever else necessary to achieve what my soul wants to convey. The universe has blessed me with the spirit and talent of an artist. I know this because I never stopped believing it. In moments of extreme sadness, I have always turned to art. As a child, I drew pictures in homeless shelters. During the pandemic when I felt lost, I learned how to connect with my artist self again. I picked up a paint brush and embarked on a journey with a skill I forgot I had.  And now, as a Black American woman and military veteran who knows her talent as a painter, a writer, and actress, I can only say that I. Am. An. Artist.