Please share the basics of your art career thus far. Education, years working, etc. How long have you been a part of the Racine/Kenosha community?

I am a lifelong resident of Racine. I received my BA in Studio Art in 2010 with concentrations in painting and printmaking from the University of Wisconsin – Parkside, Somers. Since graduating I have been very active in the local art community. I regularly exhibit in southeastern Wisconsin and have lended my talent to public art exhibitions and murals. In addition, I have had the opportunity to exhibit my work on the national and international level. My art has been shown in New York City; Chicago, Illinois; Washington D.C; Los Angeles, California; Sweden; Poland; Australia; the Netherlands; and the United Arab Emirates. I often joke that my artwork has traveled more than I have.

Would you please describe your work–what materials you use, what subject matters you explore?

I create over-the-top and whimsically feminine mixed media works that are visually dense with a nostalgic flair. In my work, decorative patterns and saccharine sweet hues are partnered to create kitschy compositions. I use a combination of linocut prints, silkscreen prints, watercolor paint, and transparent acrylic inks to render glamorous women adorned in the fashionable styles of a by-gone era. Occasionally, I incorporate embellishments such as glitter, rhinestones, and faux pearls to add a little flair to my work.

How often are you in your studio? Do you work outside of your studio much or at all?

I am in my studio as often as possible. I am grateful that I have an area in my home that is solely dedicated to artmaking. I often spend the evenings and weekends working in my studio. It is easy for me to get caught up in my work and completely lose track of time while I am creating. I also use my time in the studio for marketing, communicating with clients and collectors and submitting applications for exhibitions. I find that the long, cold Wisconsin winters lend themselves well to spending extra time in my studio, however once the summer rolls around I bring my work outside to enjoy the sunshine and warm weather. My backyard and patio become a nice area to create.

What inspires you most these days? But also what do you go to bed thinking about most nights?

The inspiration for my artwork comes from studying former fashions and vintage advertisements, perusing library books, and browsing through old family photos. I enjoy classic sitcoms as well, and often take mental note of the characters’ hairstyles and wardrobe and incorporate those into my work. I consider myself a vintage enthusiast. My home was built in the early 1960s and I am slowly working to renovate it. I frequent flea markers, estate sales, and thrift shops on the quest for just the right mid-century items to furnish my space. During these excursions I become immersed in vintage home decor and I become exposed to unique color schemes and patterns that influence my art. My days are usually jam packed so once it is bedtime I am wiped out. As I fall asleep I sometime think about what I hope to accomplish the next day.

What does it mean to you to get recognition as a RAM Emerging Artist?

Receiving the RAM Emerging Artist Award is certainly an honor! Many of the past recipients have been my former instructors and mentors. I truly appreciate and I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to exhibit my new body of work at RAM’s Wustum Museum. I am looking forward to sharing the new work that I have been creating with the community and hope that everyone enjoys it just as much as I enjoyed creating it.