A Tapestry of Influences
I readily admit to having a multitude of influences that have shaped my artistic path. What inspires me most about these influences is their ability to connect me with the intangible, the mystical, and the soulful. Each influence acts as a brushstroke on the canvas of my life, merging to create a unique tapestry of inspiration.
One of my enduring inspirations is the mandala, a geometric pattern symbolizing the universe and unity. Mandalas represent a spiritual journey and the interconnectedness of all life. They allow me to explore the depths of my intuition and convey the profound beauty that exists within us and around us.
What inspires me most about these influences is their ability to connect me with the intangible, the mystical, and the soulful. Each influence acts as a brushstroke on the canvas of my life, merging to create a unique tapestry of inspiration.
Horses are another profound influence in my work, and my connection with them is deeply personal. I've been riding horses since I was a child, and I've had the privilege of working with them as therapeutic companions throughout my life. Horses are not just animals; they are sentient beings with whom I've developed deep bonds. They have a unique ability to reflect our emotions and guide us on our journey of self-discovery.
The horse imagery in my art isn't solely about my love for these magnificent creatures; it's a way to express the profound relationship I've cultivated with my intuition. Horses have been my guides in understanding the spiritual and emotional realms, helping me unlock the secrets of my own soul.
I had a horse in my teenage years, and the countless hours I spent at the barn with him were moments of pure joy and connection. I continued my equestrian journey by riding for my college, Hollins University, and later at Indiana University, where I met Reggae, an exuberant Thoroughbred who unexpectedly became a part of my life. Reggae brought endless moments of love and connection until his passing in 2014, just two months before I gave birth to my daughter, Goldie.
**Art, Dreams, and LA Living**
The presence of feed stores in my neighborhood, horse crossing signs on my daily commute, and the ability to maintain my connection to the natural world are essential to my artistic endeavors.
Now, as Goldie grows and becomes more independent, I'm finding opportunities to reintroduce horses into my life. I've even started monthly trail rides with some of my colleagues who share my love for these magnificent creatures. Horses continue to be a source of inspiration, strength, and spiritual connection.
Art, Dreams, and LA Living
Living in Los Angeles, a place so different from my Southeastern roots, has also significantly influenced my art. While LA may seem far removed from rural landscapes, it possesses pockets of wilderness and equestrian culture that resonate with the outdoor experiences I cherished in the Southeast. The presence of feed stores in my neighborhood, horse crossing signs on my daily commute, and the ability to maintain my connection to the natural world are essential to my artistic endeavors.
Moreover, LA's magnetic pull on creatives from all over the world has enriched my journey as an artist. I've had the privilege of meeting numerous inspiring artists here, and their creativity fuels my passion and drive to explore new horizons in my work.
A Favorite Piece: A Dream Unveiled
Among the many pieces I've created, my favorite at the moment is a horse mural adorning the storage shed in my backyard. This mural is a vision I won't let go of—a dream that embodies the idea of having a horse in a small barn in my own backyard. Completing the mural on my birthday was a gift to myself, a symbol of unwavering determination to turn that dream into a reality.
Gazing at the mural from my bedroom window fills me with hope and anticipation. It's a daily reminder of the dreams to which I'm committed; dreams that interlace with my art, my love for horses, and the unending exploration of the spiritual and emotional dimensions of life.