Artist Statement

Working at the intersection of vision and healing, my art process is guided by a passion for learning and a yearning for harmony. My work runs parallel to my sense of identity and belonging. It’s about finding balance and seeing anew.

As a second-generation American with maternal roots in Jamaica, I'm inspired by the island’s vibrancy and aesthetic. While informed by Caribbean crafts and folk art including Jamaican basketry, embroidery, wood carvings and Panamanian hand-stitched molas; my work is also influenced by twentieth century painters including Matisse, Picasso, Miro, and Modigliani.

The healing arts and prior work as a visual and occupational therapist contribute to my understanding of my art practice as a therapeutic activity. Making art, learning and healing all involve shifts in perception. Healing is an ongoing process of maintaining balance, harmony and wholeness. Creating art is creating harmony and wholeness.

While exploring relationships of color, line, shape and texture; I intuitively integrate diverse influences, experiences, paint and fiber into unified art forms. Whether painting with broad brushstrokes or working stitch-by-stitch, I intuitively combine contrasting colors with interlocking lines and shapes to create unity and drama. When a piece is complete every variable belongs.

Belonging is my sense-of-self reflected back to me in my art. Yet each piece feels refreshing and new. My art expresses universal uplifting qualities. It’s bold, energetic, playful and alive.

I like the Jamaican national motto: "Out of many, one people." Belonging is not just a round peg in a round hole, it is disparate identities fitting into a whole. Belonging is the experience of harmony and oneness. I create these in my art.