I am a fine artist, and I discovered my passion in the cobblestone streets of Florence.

I have always had a passion for drawing and painting. Growing up I took many art classes but none really compared to my drawing class abroad. During college, I studied for a semester in Florence, Italy where I was able to immerse myself in the art culture and focus on my drawing practice. My art teacher was a big influence on me. He introduced me to so much in that one semester, from drawing live models to drawing from life in the piazza (a public square). His class sparked my passion for drawing people. Whenever I was drawing in public, locals would come up to me telling me my work was “bellisima” (beautiful) and asking if they could buy it. It was an experience I lived for.

I love making art, but even more so, I love seeing something I create bring others so much joy.

Years later when Covid hit, I lost my job and ended up pulling back out my art supplies that had been collecting dust in the back of my closet. I had more time on my hands to fully commit to my practice and soon began painting pet portrait commissions. Seeing how much my art really connects with my customers means the world to me. Even though I have painted so many of the same breeds of pets, each pet parent can look through a sea of all of them and tell you exactly which pet is theirs.

Painting pet portraits lead me to create my own original artwork that is just as unique and authentic, but still sparks a deep connection with you.

I firmly believe that art should be more than just a space filler on a wall. There is always a reason behind why we are so drawn to a specific artwork and why it becomes even more meaningful to us. I was drawn to animals as my subject matter because every animal is just as unique and beautiful as we are and I want to inspire that same individuality and beauty we have within ourselves. There is so much beauty and power within us that oftentimes we fail to see it- myself included.

If it wasn’t for my art giving me the strength and courage to be bold and share my work with the world, my work and talents may still be hidden away in the closet today. But because I’ve decided to show up in my practice and be bold and confident in sharing my work with you, I can thrive knowing I’ve given something meaningful back to the world through the power of my art. Each one of my paintings is meant to inspire that same beauty and strength within you to stand out, embrace your beauty, and be uniquely you.

If you’re curious and want to learn more about my musings behind the artwork, head over to my gallery to read up on each piece.