Who or what inspired you to start painting?
I started making art as a child and dreamed of being like Dr. Seuss, an artist who made his weird paintings and earned his money by writing children’s books. I attended Memphis College of Art, with a focus in Ceramics, where my heart stayed happy and my hands stayed permanently dirty for three years. I started painting after I got out of art school, 11 years ago, because I did not have access to a kiln. I have been painting and sculpting for years now and I hope to continue to pursue both.
What is your favorite spot on Earth to think?
I think everywhere, all day. I have a very active imagination and I am always writing and drawing in my sketchbook. My favorite spot is where I don’t think. I love to surf, and sitting on the top of a surfboard in the ocean waiting for a beautiful wave to travel towards me so that I can stand up and ride for just a few seconds, is the best feeling in the world. The quietness and solitude that comes with surfing is like nothing else that I have ever experienced. Surfing is the only thing that I love more than being in my studio.
If you could have a super power, what would it be?
If I had a superpower, it would be the ability to not need sleep. I have so much energy and ideas, but not enough time in a day. I wish that my body didn’t need sleep and I could just keep going and going as my regular self. I love sleep though so maybe it could just be a treat and not so necessary!
What is your favorite album right now?
I am loving this Memphis girl Valerie June and her first big album “Pushing Against the Stone” is becoming very popular worldwide, mostly because it is so amazing!
How has art changed your life?
Art rules every aspect of my life. I have always felt fortunate to have always known what I want to do with my life, be a unique artist. I have never had any doubts. Art has made me a fighter, because as a child dreaming of being an artist, most adults tried to steer me in any other direction but the Studio Arts. I know they were trying to help, but my decision was made and I fought everyday to make my art. I still am fighting on a daily basis to make the Art that I want to make, and to show the world why I think it’s important to make.
