Artist Statement: Gratitude Series

Based in the Pacific Northwest, I am Seattle born-and-raised creative with a wide range of artistic and technical freelance experience. My daily walks in nature and in my garden influence the colors and textures represented in the themes and stories in my art. I create original pieces using driftwood, photography, collage, acrylic, watercolor, trade beads, alcohol ink, various textures, written words and design to express light, enchantment, wonder and joy. My gratitude series began in 2018 with a simple text exchange with a friend. As I continued, I had the desire to expand it into a visual practice. I took a class and learned about a process involving black gesso and mixed media that could bring my words to life. I was mesmerized. It took me about a year to develop a successful incorporation of this practice into my daily morning routine, refining it to under thirty minutes or less. It is a powerful catalyst and something that brings me joy, peace and focus every day. I practice gratitude to keep me grounded and help remind me that the life I am living is more than enough. It also serves as a great way to manifest the life I am trying to move towards by weaving affirmations and intentions into my gratitude statements. I am now called to share my visual gratitude practice to a broad audience so that they can experience the same joy I do every day. My greatest hope is that my artwork and gratitude can spark something creative, soothing and entirely authentic for those who engage with it.