National Park Inspiration: Mount Rainier- Tahoma

So thankful we were able to go on our Autumn trip to Mount Rainier National Park this year. As always, got to enjoy nature’s gifts of the season: lots of great pops of colors with the leaves changing, misty fog rolling through the trees, so many mushrooms (!), lively critters roaming around before the transition to Winter. Amazing views of the PNW ranges on the clear days, and hiking trails beautiful rain or shine. Tahoma, as it’s known since time immemorial, is a truly awe inspiring sight to behold, words cannot begin to describe, and pictures never do it justice. I really hope I am able to transfer at least a sliver of it onto paper/canvas to share continued inspiration for the life giving mountains & landscapes of the region.

Art Display at Rock & Rye Restaurant in Bham- Starting Sept. 27th

My work is currently on display at Rock & Rye Oyster House in Bellingham, WA. https://www.rockrye.com Please stop by to check out the art in-person, and also enjoy some amazing food + drinks!

Beauty Nearby

Living in the PNW it is easy to find beauty outdoors without looking very far. I have been enjoying visiting nearby beaches & trails, and experiencing the seasonal wildflowers, lively wildlife, and eye-catching views around every corner. May we never lose our connections with nature, and may we never take what is close to us for granted. Let’s welcome in Summer- And remember to keep nature wild & undisturbed!

Teachings & Wisdom in Art

For as long as I can remember, I have been interested in art and have quite enjoyed creating & crafting things- be it painting, photography, or whatever other creative expression I have met along the way. Aside from art being beautiful, fun, and thought provoking, it is a way to tell a story, create memorable experiences, and spark inspiration.

I have learned so much through the years, and when I think of my art journey I often think of time spent working & volunteering with various programming in Snohomish County, when I worked with the juvenile court system & community programs, local youth shelters & long-term housing, as well as organizations that provided support for mental/behavioral health and intensive outpatient wraparound services for youth & families. There were many opportunities I was able to learn & shape across various mediums, with youth, local artists, culture keepers, and positive role models in supportive environments, including but not limited to: photography, fused glass, basket weaving, different paint forms, pencil/charcoal sketching, collage, lettering & calligraphy, and community murals. There are so many amazing, life-changing, & unforgettable stories involving art that I have been a witness to; I am in awe of the ways it can heal, connect, provide joy, and overwhelmingly inspire.

National Park Inspiration: Joshua Tree

Recently, I went on a bucket list trip to Joshua Tree and was incredibly inspired by the landscape and flora & fauna of the wild. I didn’t quite expect there to be so much life in a desert environment, especially being from somewhere with lush forests & endless coastlines, but LIFE could be found EVERYWHERE. I took hundreds of photos and would love to share them all but that would take up a lot of space online. Lots of ideas for translating to paintings…

*Just a reminder if you venture anywhere remember to show love & respect to the earth, wildlife, and people wherever you go*