In Progress (new work)

Very recently I've had a rush of creative energy and I've been working in my studio more frequently. It feels great to 'get back to  work' so to speak and draw, paint, and expand upon ideas and themes I've been thinking about for a while. I am definitely still interested in using found and historical imagery within my pieces. Below are a few snapshots of what I've been working on. 

Also, if you're interested in getting to learn about my personal approach to creating art, I've been sending out monthly newsletters that explain my artistic interests and activities. Please feel free to sign up.

 

 

Ryan's Studio

I met Ryan Compton back in 2009 when I first moved to New York City right after grad school. He and I were working at The Conran Shop, which was an upscale design store on the Upper East Side. That's also where we met Angela Velasquez. I was lucky to have met them and we had a good time working together while we were scurrying below the Queensborough bridge.

Ryan is currently enrolled at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago: SAIC and is a second-year graduate student studying studio art. This past summer, Ryan was extremely nice to tour me around SAIC and also showed me his huge studio. 

Ryan, it's been great to see a familiar face in Chicago and I hope that you have a wonderful second year! Good luck!

My New Studio

John and I recently purchased a two bedroom condo in Oak Park and we are finally all moved in, settled, and already working on painting some walls. In addition to our own storage locker, the condo came with a work-room, which I'll be using as a studio. Having a studio was a condo wishlist option that was unexpected, but highly appreciated. I've already been a lot more productive and energized with a set space for making art, which is helping me get ready for my August exhibition Made Manifest, at the Oak Park Public Library. Stay tuned for more fancy things to come!

Frank Lloyd Wright's Home and Studio

One of the many benefits of living in Oak Park, IL is that I'm lucky to live around many historical and fascinating landmarks. One particular place is the home and studio of architect and designer Frank Lloyd Wright. Constructed in the late 19th century, his home was his first building he worked on as an architect. He would make additions and rework rooms like a drawing, re-configuring spaces to accommodate himself, his wife and their six children (with only one bathroom). The house is run by the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust that oversees many other Wright buildings around Chicagoland. John and I were able to see the house on a day with free admission and freshly decorated for Christmas. Photos were not allowed inside, but of the photos I did get, you can sense the development of a distinctive architectural style that defined Wright.