Peace

For me, painting isn’t just a fun pastime; it’s a chill way to sort through all the thoughts and feelings bouncing around in my head. When I’m out in nature, soaking up the colors and listening to the calming sounds, it feels like I’m meditating. Each brushstroke helps me untangle my thoughts and feelings, turning them into something I can actually see and appreciate. It’s like solving a puzzle where every piece represents a memory or an emotion I want to express through my art. Getting into this creative zone not only makes me think but also gives me a real sense of peace and happiness.

My Latest Inspiration

My latest painting came from a magical moment I had while hanging out on the dock.

One evening, I was totally mesmerized by how the colors on the water and in the sky changed as the sun set during that golden hour—seriously, it’s my favorite time of day, and I can’t get enough of it! The warm lavender and pinks mixed perfectly with the cool blues and violets of the river, creating a stunning view that danced in front of me. In the midst of all this beauty, I spotted a lone pelican gliding over the river, and its graceful movements added a peaceful vibe to the moment. I was so struck by it that I felt the urge to capture it right then and there, locking that image in my mind because I knew I had to bring that fleeting beauty to life .

My Painting Routine

I usually paint in the afternoons, right after my morning shift at Village Pilates (my other passion and business of almost 17yrs!). This routine has become a special part of my day, helping me reset after a busy workday. After all the physical and mental focus, I often feel a bit tense and anxious. Painting gives me the perfect outlet to let that energy out and shift my thoughts. During these creative moments, I really find my calm; the smooth motion of my brush on paper helps me breathe deeply and release my worries. Creating art is the one thing that consistently helps me chill out, keeping me grounded in the moment and allowing me to express my inner world in a way that words often can’t. Each painting is like a snapshot of my journey, a visual diary that shows not just the beauty I see, but also the emotional ups and downs I go through.

I share my work in hopes of sharing some of the peace and beauty I see. The world is full of ugliness. I hope to make it better by creating a moment of peace in my work.

A Georgia O'Keefe quote hangs on my easel "I've been absolutely terrified every moment of my life-and I've never let it keep me from doing a single thing I wanted to do" this quote cheers me on and encourages me every time I see it. I read it every time I paint. O'keefe is one of my inspirations not only in her art work but in how she lived her life so intentionally.

Peace on the Indian River 16x20