About the Artist

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I am an artist who has dedicated my life to the exploration of various artistic mediums. With a background in painting, illustration, community arts organization, and teaching, I dedicate my time to refining my skills and developing a deeper understanding of the creative process.

Having spent nearly two decades in Yellowknife, I have formed a profound connection to the land and its rich history. As an 11th generation North American with settler ancestry, I am grateful for the opportunity to live, work, and raise my family on Chief Drygeese Territory in the Akaitcho region, the traditional land of the Yellowknives Dene First Nation and North Slave Metis.

My artistic passion lies in capturing the essence of northern wildlife through realistic paintings. Using acrylics and oils, I strive to create images that not only depict the beauty of these environments and animals but also evoke the emotions they stir within me. Through the careful use of texture and exaggerated lighting, I aim to transport the viewer into the very moment I experienced, allowing them to share in the same feelings of awe and wonder.

In a world that often moves at a fast pace, I invite you to slow down and truly appreciate the intricacies of the natural world. Just as I did as a child, spending hours beneath the back steps, observing the smallest details of bugs, rocks, and clay, I believe there is immense value in taking the time to truly see and understand our surroundings. Drawing inspiration from my own childhood experiences, I strive to capture the nostalgia and longing for a deeper connection with nature. The colors, textures, sights, and sounds that often go unnoticed in our busy lives are brought to the forefront in my artwork, reminding us of the beauty that surrounds us if we only take the time to appreciate it.

Throughout my artistic journey, I have sought to expand my knowledge and skills through various educational institutions, including Haliburton College of Art + Design, Sunbury Shores Art Centre, and The Academy of Realist Art in Boston, MA.

Additionally, I have had the privilege of sharing my passion with others as a middle school art program developer and teacher for YK1, as well as a part-time art teacher at École Sir John Franklin High School.

When I am not immersed in the world of art, I am actively involved in the cultural community as the president of NorthWords NWT, a non-profit northern literary society. Balancing my artistic pursuits with my role as a parent to two wonderful children, I find fulfillment in both nurturing their creativity and contributing to the artistic landscape of Yellowknife.

In summary, my artistic journey is a testament to my unwavering dedication to capturing the beauty of the natural world and inspiring others to slow down, appreciate their surroundings, and find solace in the profound connection between art and nature. Through my work, I aim to ignite a sense of wonder and nostalgia, reminding us all of the importance of embracing the small, the natural, and the profound in our lives.

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