Born and raised in Ware, Massachusetts, I have always had a strong passion for the world of Art. Growing up in a family strongly involved in community theater, I was regularly exposed to new ideas of what art could be. From sitting in on rehearsals to helping my father with set design and construction even to acting as well, it was clear there was a passion in myself to be as creative as possible. I found myself dancing and drawing ever since I was introduced to the arts.
I was able to take art courses at the public schools I attended. There, not only did I learn about several new techniques, but also about the Artists that made them famous. It was the work of M. C. Escher that first inspired me to work very detailed in the mediums of charcoal and scratchboard. Having created an etching of a palm tree, I entered it in the Arts and Writing Scholastic Competition for the state of Florida. In turn, it won a Gold Key and was moved on to be judged nationally at the Guggenheim Museum in New York City. Such an honor was an amazing accomplishment at the starting point of my career.
At 18 I was offered a position at the Joffrey Ballet in Chicago, first as an Arpino Apprentice and then promoted to full company dancer. I quickly progressed and performed many leading and principle roles in my 15 year career with them.
During my dancing career I came across the body of work of Roy Lichtenstein which inspired me to branch out into the world of Pop Art with my paintings. Utilizing oil and acrylic paint, I experimented with color, contrast, shape and design while creating fun and whimsical works.
With all this new energy and momentum for painting, it was hard not to share it with everyone in my life. Word spread of my paintings and very soon I was not only receiving praise, but also interest in commissioned works. Always loving a new challenge, I moved forward and created several commissioned works for clients and friends.
The past few years have found me pursuing group and solo exhibitions in private and public gallery spaces. Creating my own body of work while building my presence in the Art community. I have also provided original works to be auctioned off to benefit charities and organizations that are doing the good work I believe in.
Being a former ballet dancer, my knowledge of anatomy has inspired me to paint the human form. Having also honed my senses from my career as a dancer, I always try to see the world amplified and paint what my minds eye sees. Adding additional vibrency, depth and life to the things we see all around us.
I am a kid at heart, it comes as no surprise that my art evokes ideas of youth, vitality, frivolity, passion and enticement.