I create in ways that heal myself and others and continue three collections empowered by art therapy: “Looking In,” “Looking Up,” and “Looking Out. Each formed as life asked it to, and helps address the complexity of the human condition, rather than trying to limit a human to a singular style.

“Looking In” began as a way to process and navigate the pandemic’s uncertainties, and now continues through all of life’s difficulties and losses. These are introspective, intuitive, and process based works employing art therapy modalities to heal and grow. Styles vary greatly in these works, exhibiting the complexities and facets of the psyche. 

“Looking Up” is a process that asks one to stay in the ‘here and now.’ These works were inspired after sitting with my father in hospice before he passed. In his last days he looked up at a stark white ceiling. Now I know, after research, a skylight painting above his bed would have helped ease his suffering. Coincidentally, creating images that gaze straight up into the sky helped me metabolize and navigate grief by staying in the present (rather than in the past). Studies in neuroaestethics (how viewing artwork affects stress, emotion, and the brain) led to therapeutic artwork for patients. Paintings are mounted over patient beds, mimic skylights, and glow in the dark for 24/7 aid. Looking Up Wellness, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, now provides therapeutic wellness paintings to healthcare facilites. For research and benefits click here.

“Looking Out” depicts my experiencing nature as restorative. This series includes inspirations from National Parks, and animals as archetypal messengers (popular in Native American cultures). Spending time in nature helps me restore and integrate after difficult “Looking In” works. In essence, this is a self care practice. Painting and viewing what we find beautiful releases dopamine in the brain, giving the same feeling as being in love.

Portraiture remains the foundation for it all, truly seeing another. National Geographic Magazine was the initial inspiration and I wondered how I could improve lives with my artistic gifts. For 20 years I have completed commissioned portraits of endeared pets, people, and places.