“I wanted to create a show that would represent the will and determination of following a dream. Being steadfast in that goal and keeping it close to your heart. Continuing on the path, no matter how steep the climb might be. For me, this show represents my accomplishment of being a full time artist. The drive and obsession this dream has required. This show might represent a different dream to each individual that views this show.

I ask you, what dreams does this series spark in you?

I have dreamed of being a full time artist for as long as I can remember. Art holds a special place in my heart, as I know it does for many people. For me, the act of creating, brings a sense of completion. It brings a sense of purpose. When I paint, I enter a place where time and space don’t seem to matter.

I wanted to express the emotion of following a dream. I do this in my choice of symbols though out this series.

I want to take you on a walk through the historical symbology of these pieces and break down this series.

I have chosen to represent sparrows throughout this show. First because they are my favorite bird. Second, though they are rather small in size, they represent persistence and courage. Something I wish to embody in my everyday life and my work.

The golden circle is here to remind us of totality, wholeness and the cyclical movement of life. There is no timeline on your goals and dreams. What matters is the action towards those dreams.

Lastly my favorite symbol, the red thread of fate. It is said that the red thread connects us all to out fates, our destinies. I am using this red thread of fate to represent the connection of self and those dreams.

Binding them to you…” Artist statement: “ I work by the quote, “Art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable” by Cesar A. Cruz. My work consists of what I call, “Bird Girls.” I create my work on a variety of surfaces ranging from wood to garments to traditional cloth canvas. I source my inspiration photos from found bones and oddities. I create my work from my love of all things strange and mystical. My work is my meditation and I find as I create them, they begin to take on a life of their own. I have been asked, “what do they mean?” to which I now ask, what do they mean to you? My hope is that my work speaks to you individually, as my creations may fill a place in your heart that is completely different than my own. I use my experiences, my fascinations, my sadness and my joy to create my pieces. I had the wonderful privilege of graduating from the University of New Mexico where I received my Bachelor in Art with a concentration in Painting and Drawing. My time at the University allowed me to study under wonderful artists such as Scott Anderson and Beau Carey. I learned how to embrace and harness my work. I found a way to create my truth. I learned how to stand behind my work unfailingly, yet be open to critiques and the opportunity to grow. Born and raised in Albuquerque, I have been given many opportunities to share my work with my community. I have shown work in group shows throughout the city, participated in monthly “Art Walks” and had a booth at the annual Rail Yards Holiday show. I also currently teach private art lessons ranging from technical drawing and painting too crafting for my younger students. I decided to become a full time, professional artist in the fall of 2019 when I realized that I no longer wanted to fit the mold of a 9-5 job. When asked the question, “if you could do anything/be anything, what would you be?” I would answer, “a full time artist.” I realized that I was not made to sit behind a desk, and that is okay. Taking the leap to be a full time artist has had its ups and downs but at the end of the day, I would not trade it for the world.”