Behind the Work

My work is rooted in a deep appreciation for nature and expressed in acrylic and digital media. Growing up in the vibrant tropics of Miami and the lush Irish countryside shaped how I see, attuning me to pattern, texture, and subtle shifts of color—an influence that continues to guide my work today.

I began painting fantasy landscapes before moving into textile design, where pattern became the foundation of my process. Patternmaking is instinctive and meditative for me, a way of bringing order to chaos.

Inspired by my fascination with animals and their habitats, I became a children’s book author and illustrator of nonfiction picture books. My approach blended stylized realism with embellished pattern and luminous color, honoring the anatomy and spirit of each subject while celebrating intricate detail.

My years in textile design, book illustration, and painting have shaped how I build an image. I work in layers, mark by mark, until scattered parts connect. I’m always seeking balance—enough detail to feel immersive, enough structure to hold it together.

Through nonfiction, I learned to see the world clearly. Now my vision is wandering into more whimsical, imagined territory, returning to the imaginative spirit that first drew me to painting. Though my work has evolved, it remains guided by the same sense of wonder that has always grounded me in nature. Ultimately, I hope to invite viewers to share in that joyful discovery.