How did you get started in this industry? I have been as artist since I could pick up a crayon. Painting is what I have creatively connected to in my 15 years of being a professional artist. Since graduating from Hunter College I have always followed my intuition and pursued a creative career. I have always loved teaching art and guiding others through the creative process. It is so rewarding seeing my students connect to their inner artist. When it comes to live event painting, a friend asked me to paint her wedding, and I fell in love with the process. Every painting I create I still feel as though I'm learning and growing from the experience. I love having the opportunity to paint in front of a live audience, I feel as if I'm on stage!
What did you do before starting your business? My first job right out of college was working for Martha Stewart. Yes, I know, pretty crazy to jump in feet first. But, I realize now, the most significant things happened when I stepped outside of my comfort zone and made a drastic change. I thought I wanted to continue to grow as a prop stylist and set decorator. I even moved to Los Angeles to follow the dream I thought was for me. I met some amazing people, worked for celebrity clients, and eventually got my foot in the door with high profile production companies. After some major contemplation, and a few unexpected set backs, I realized that I needed to make a change. It became very transparent to me, behind all the glitz and glamour, the entertainment business is not at all what it seems (in my experience). It showed me a world where huge egos with ruthless unethical tactics and unhealthy competitive behavior takes over. It's not who I am and I chose to leave the dream of making a career in TV and Film behind and look within to find my purpose, one I could connect with and feel good about. That is when I realized that art was always my true passion in life.
