Inspiration - My journey as an artist is steeped in my love for animals. As a child, they were the main subject of every drawing. Although art school was a consideration, I was encouraged to pursue a degree in science, ultimately earning a degree in microbiology. After a few years in the laboratory, I moved into clinical trial management. However, art was always calling & I enrolled in night art classes at UCSD. Due to work travel, I fell two art history classes short of completing my Art & The Creative Process Professional Certificate, but at least I had some art training under my belt.
In 2006, I walked away from my corporate job, downsized, and moved to Southern Oregon, giving me the flexibility to pursue art, as well as various volunteer activities. I started taking oil painting classes and teaching children’s art classes. I volunteered at our local shelter, walking dogs and later helping run their bunny adoption program. I also volunteered at a local animal sanctuary, conducting farm tours, photographing their animals for social media, and eventually joining their board.
Surprisingly, it took a few years, and almost quitting as a painter, to understand that I was only motivated to paint when the subject was an animal! I love reflecting their personalities and am especially inspired by the backstories of shelter & sanctuary animals. I now use my art to help raise money for animal charities and rescue groups and am a member of HeARTsSpeak, an international group of artists whose mission is to give animals a unified voice. Proceeds from all of my art sales are donated to animal charity groups.
Currently, I live in Carlsbad, CA with my husband, our adopted animal family of four bunnies and a highly energetic Border Collie.
The merchandise available through this fundraiser is offered to promote compassion across species and directly support Odd Man Inn Animal Refuge’s charitable mission. Where permitted by applicable law, qualifying items are offered exempt from sales tax.
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