Through abstract expressionist painting, I explore and acknowledge the chaos and sufferings that life in this world brings, while choosing to express the beauty, growth, stillness, and light that can always be found. Reflecting on this truth during the creative process, I weave together abundant boldness, shifting hues, and distinct moments of pause – allowing each painting to move, breathe, and rest all at once.

With the accumulation of layers, there are senses of personal histories that emerge as witness to the coexisting layers of heartache and heart-mending we experience simply by being human. The deep hues in my work honor our suffering, while simultaneously bringing the eye to areas of lightness – making these visual moments ever-brighter and more vibrant. I hope for my paintings to stand as proclamations for the joy available to each of us that doesn’t make sense in this broken world, as it’s a joy that reaches into heavenly spaces – bringing a wonder and mystery swept out of despair, and saturated in hope.

I see the process of abstraction as a form of active prayer, like a conversation with Jesus through each brushstroke. It’s a tangible reminder that I’m fully free in Christ. My clenched hands can be opened to receive His liberating rest and mercy, as He guides me in both the messy and whimsical moments of a painting. My work aims to magnify the notion that the darkness was, is, and will be overcome – we are free to live in the light.

We are children of light. May we live, breathe, love, and create in the joy of that eternal truth.

“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord.  Live as children of light.” Ephesians 5:8