Trees, streams, and fields were my childhood playgrounds. Dry, prickly grass poked my skin as I ended days staring at stars and planets. I distinctly remember asking, “What’s on the other side of space?” and my confusion about infinity. Boredom, libraries, and my grandmother taught me to observe, use my hands, and figure things out. Money was not abundant, but materials were. Scraps, natural materials and found items were used –igniting my imagination. I created images and objects that excited and frustrated me while teaching me patience and tenacity. My creations often spoke for me when I was afraid to use my voice. Fast forward to the Virginia Commonwealth University Art School experience, graphic design work for non-profits and environmental groups in D.C., and ‘pausing from work’ to raise my sons. I chose to teach art and work on my own instead of returning to graphic design.Art has led me to various places and people of all ages with differing beliefs, experiences, and perspectives. Young children and older adults are the most rewarding for me to be with since learned behavior and filters are non-existent or thin. Being with a young boy as he recreates nightmares in clay, inspiring children to share the joy and beauty around them in a bold, public mosaic or encouraging those in the later part of their lives as they express their wisdom and grief while learning to play again through art-making – these are gifts I am most grateful for. Art saves lives. The process and results can heal, calm, speak for the voiceless, and instill awe. The ability to bring people to tears with an image is powerful. Seeing my art do that for others solidified my belief in what I do.My life has come full circle. I now sense the movement of life through space and time, unconcerned about any edges. Drawing, painting, sewing, balancing, building, sculpting…exploring, teaching, and playing with ideas and materials--my life’s work. I am distilling, abstracting, and clarifying my vision. Now is the time to to realize my full potential as an artist. I am excited about sharing, collaborating, and leaning into the support needed to get my work into the world.