Seeing the World in Birds

I've always been drawn to creating, and I find it difficult to limit myself to a single medium. Whether I'm making jewelry, painting, printmaking, or experimenting with collage, I'm constantly inspired by color, bold graphic elements, and a sense of joy. Often, I'll witness a conversation, a landscape, or an unforgettable sky, and immediately see it as a finished piece of artwork in my mind. I can almost file those moments away like photographs, returning to them later when it's time to create.

One phrase I often use is that I "see the world in birds." My bird paintings are inspired by the interactions I observe every day—between people, animals, and nature—and transformed into colorful, expressive characters. Many of the birds represent people and pets in my own life, making these paintings quietly autobiographical while celebrating the beauty and humor of the natural world.

Although each body of work begins with a clear vision, every medium offers something different. My paintings are carefully planned, while my beadwork and camp flags allow more room for exploration and spontaneous decisions. Moving between different creative processes keeps me curious, challenges me to think in new ways, and reminds me that there is always something new to discover through art.

My Artistic Journey

Creativity has always been part of my life. Growing up in Wisconsin, I was surrounded by both nature and a family of artists. My mother and brother are practicing artists, and being raised in that environment encouraged me to explore, experiment, and appreciate the many ways art can tell a story.

Today, I call Marshfield, Maine home, where I live with my husband, Garret, our dog Butters, and our cat Judy. Alongside my own creative practice, I have the privilege of teaching art at Machias Memorial High School—a role that inspires me as much as I hope it inspires my students. Sharing creativity with young artists reminds me daily that there is no single path to making meaningful work.

My creative interests continue to evolve. While I regularly create beadwork, paintings, and screen-printed apparel, I'm always exploring new ideas and techniques. Recently, my mother and I began a year-long art challenge together, encouraging each other to create consistently while pushing beyond our comfort zones. That challenge has led me to spend more time working with collage, adding another exciting chapter to an artistic journey that continues to grow with every new project.