California

Art Education: I studied at Brigham Young University–Idaho, and I graduated with my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 2015. I absolutely loved my education and owe everything I am today to the art faculty there.

Style: Impressionistic.

Creative Spark: Going on painting trips with other artists and sharing in the excitement of hiking throughout and painting this beautiful world.

Second-Choice Career: Something that involves animals.

Other Passions: Hiking, camping, and traveling.

One Thing People Don’t Know About You: I am part Cherokee Indian, and the Cherokee culture has played an important role in my family’s traditions.

Best Advice Received: Correct value helps a painting read, and coloris all relative.

Biggest Fear: Heights.

Pet Peeve: Forgetting paper towels when I go plein-air painting.

Quirkiest Trait: I stick my tongue out when I’m trying to focus.

Mantra or Motto: “I may not be right, but I am certain,” adopted from a quote by John Burton. I’ve come to learn that it means to approach painting with confidence. Even if the shape, color, or value isn’t correct, making a mark with confidence will result in making strong decisions, and then you can correct and adjust details as necessary.

Favorite Studio Music: It depends on the day. I mostly listen to instrumental or classical music, but if I need a boost to start a tough painting, I put on my gym playlist.

Favorite Work by Another Artist: Claude Monet’s ON THE BANK OF THE SEINE, BENNECOURT. I also have been enjoying studying works by Matt Smith and Frank Serrano.

Future Goals: I would love to have my work in multiple galleries, have a solo show one day, and travel to Europe to paint.

Price Range: $250 to $5,000.

Representation: Studio Seven Arts, Pleasanton, CA.

This story was featured in the September 2018 issue of Southwest Art magazine. Get the Southwest Art September 2018 print issue or digital download now–then subscribe to Southwest Art and never miss another story.