Journal
Writing from the art.
From Imaginal Cell to Cultural Metamorphosis
How can a single moment of inspiration ripple out to create waves of change across the globe? As I reflect on my recent trip to Aotearoa, New Zealand, this single question winds through my ramblings, landing me at, not the beginning, but a beginning.
Weaving Our Future: The Story Behind "Crows with a Cawse"
Fresh off a flight from Aotearoa, New Zealand, with little time to overcome jet lag, I launched directly into my latest project for the City of Bothell's Sustainamania festival.
This low-relief, collaborative art piece is more than just artwork; it's a call to action—a visual manifesto urging us to confront our legacy of plastic pollution. The crow, crafted from upcycled and painted plastic bottles and other materials, symbolizes our current reality of plastic pollution— plastic in the ocean, plastic in our bodies, plastic in even the most remote corners of the earth.
Emerging from Shadows: The Story of My Memoir Unfolds
As I walked the familiar trail near my home, I wished I had worn my running shoes. Not for comfort, but because my heart was so full of joy and excitement that I wanted to run, to let loose in the sheer exhilaration of the moment. With each breath, I soaked in the beauty of the day—the only day like it, the day that was here and now.
My thoughts buzzing with delightful anticipation, I rejoiced in my thriving relationships, my daughter shining brightly in my life, and adventures awaiting with kindred spirits across the globe. Among many thrilling updates, there is one that stands out, filling me with a profound sense of purpose and, admittedly, a bit of trepidation: I am writing a book.
Safe Harbor Art Unveiling June 18th, 4-6PM
Announcement, announcement, announcement! Safe Harbor, my multi-medium art installation at Monarch Abused Children’s Resource Center is complete! I’d love to share this amazing art piece with you. Please join me for the Art Unveiling!
When: June 185h, 400-6:00 PM, 2024
Where: 3020 Willamette Dr NE, Lacey WA 98516
What: Safe Harbor Art Unveiling
We will have light refreshments and look forward to meeting you in the community! This is a family-friendly event, so feel free to bring the whole crew.
Eco Art for Earth: How Artists Influence Environmental Change!
Interested in creating change with art? Then you won’t want to miss this event: Eco Art for Earth: How Artists Influence Environmental Change! I am honored to be in conversation with Beverly Aarons, of Artists up Close. Through interview and interactive group discussion we will explore how art can directly impact public policy and public perception of environmental issues. Here are the details:
Where: The event is hybrid, with an in-person option at Blue Cone Studios in Seattle
When: April 19, 7-8:30 PM, 2024
The Art of Rejection (Move through Rejection and Align with your Calling)
As a professional artist, rejection and I have become old acquaintances. Each proposal and application set free into the world has its own destiny; some return bearing fruit, others with the polite 'no thanks' we're all familiar with. I've learned to receive these letters with a nod and a silent acknowledgment that not every opportunity is my call to answer. Last year's forgotten application was a testament to this practice of Trust and letting go.
Sometimes though, sometimes it hurts.
Remember and See the Humanity of the Palestinian People. And Take Action.
On the day Hamas bombed Israel, killing 1,400 people and kidnapping hundreds of others, I spoke about the power of art in front of The Olympia-Rafah Solidarity Mural Project.
How to Value Yourself as an Artist or Leader (Five Tips to Inspire Action)
Valuing yourself, especially in fields driven by passion like art and community leadership, is essential. Here are five short tips to help you recognize their worth, whether you are an artist, a community leader, or an educator.