Why did you start painting?
I started painting/drawing any a early age. I didn’t have a lot of friends in school, so I found ways to entertain myself to keep me occupied. I had no idea that it would become a outlet for me to express myself and to be noticed a little bit more in school that I was. It was always a great way to get to know people. For instance, when I would be in a room full of people I didn’t know and to shy to introduce myself, I simply took out my pencils and sketch book and began to draw. Within a few minutes I’d have people asking what I was doing and where did I learn to draw and so forth. Really helped me grow into a more social person.
Can art heal?
Yes, I believe that art has many impacts to the healing process. It can calm you down during stress or anxiety, lower heart rate, clear the mind, relive stress and not to mention that when you’re done, as you look at what was created, you kinda get that feeling like “huh…. about of all my feelings, emotions and thoughts turned into something that can’t be duplicated.” And is as unique as I. That’s a great feeling, to look at something that wasn’t ever there until you came along. My cousin Mary Aday said it before… to me actually.
Who is your biggest influence in art?
My biggest influence in art would have to be my family – my mom especially. Always telling me that I was talented and one day would impact someone in some way of greatness to them. I’ve always just brushed it off and said that she was only saying that because she’s mom and that’s what moms do. But without her, I would not be the person I am today. And honestly, I kinda like me. I’m proud and glad that she’s my mom.
What is song is playing on your phone right now?
The song playing on my phone right now is “Sirens of the Sea” by Ocean Lab – my favorite song in the universe!!
Why have you decided to help Big Bend Cares?
I have decided to help Big Ben Cares because of all the help they provide to others and the LGBT community – my community. All the hard work that they put in… a simple “thank you” couldn’t be enough. Lucky are we to have them in our town and community. I wanted to give back. Just paying it forward.
