through the garden
6’ X 6’ Acrylic on Canvas
The young woman with oversized horns moves through a lush landscape filled with recognizable plants beneath the light of a full moon. The moon represents a moment of heightened energy, when the natural world feels especially alive and full of possibility. The scene is meant to evoke wonder, exploration, and mystery—a feeling of wandering into unfamiliar territory with excitement rather than fear.
Looking back, this painting feels like a turning point in my practice. Many of the visual ideas and themes that would appear in later works first took shape here. It marks the beginning of a style I found myself returning to: one rooted in dense botanical environments, symbolic figures, and the quiet magic of transformation. More than a single painting, it captures a moment when I felt myself growing alongside the work, both becoming something I hadn't been before.
This painting was created during a period of exploration and renewal. It came shortly after I moved in with my now husband, when we were learning how to build a life together through shared experiences, creativity, and curiosity. We spent our days making art, playing games, and discovering new parts of ourselves and each other. After several difficult years, it was a time when I began to rediscover my confidence—both as a person and as an artist. I had found the courage to return to school, step beyond the familiarity of my family home, and embrace the uncertainty of something entirely new.
hide & Seek
10”x 10” Acrylic on canvas
This acrylic on canvas began as a fun, lighthearted piece with a touch of humor. As it evolved, though, this little monkey took on a personality of his own—an inquisitive thinker, eager to learn and explore. Music has a unique way of expanding the mind, creating new connections and opening us to different experiences. That's exactly what this little monkey is doing: listening, learning, and growing, one song at a time.
This sketchbook page documents the early development of the painting, from the initial composition to the color palette and layering techniques. The first sketch of the monkey is loose, exaggerated, and cartoon-like—a quick expression of the original humorous idea. As the painting progressed, I worked from a real monkey reference, and the character gradually took on a more natural, realistic form.
The page also explores the layering technique used in the finished acrylic painting. By building solid colors over one another, I created the illusion of depth and form without relying on heavy blending.
soulbound series
search and create
water color & pen
