I am thrilled to present the first exhibit of my "Heavenly Bodies" series in the Go Figure exhibit at Link & Pin Artspace, July 26-August 18. 

This series explores our connection with nature. That connection has the power to heal and transform, and I believe that compassionate transformation can change the world for the better.

Join me and five other award-winning figurative artists for the opening reception, Saturday, July 27,
7-9pm.

Link & Pin
2235 E 6th St.
​Austin, TX

Link & Pin presents six Austin figurative painters, who express their individual impressions of beauty in chaotic times. Join artists JC Amorrortu, Lawrence Jolly, Meena Matocha, Rhea Pettit, Kristi Standley, and Linda Wandt at the opening reception on Saturday, July 27, from 7-9 pm. 

Link & Pin
2235 E 6th St., #102
Austin TX

Personal note: I'm thrilled to show with this group of painters. So many unique styles, from realism, to abstract figurative, to surreal; there is something for everyone!

I realized I haven't posted in several months. So sorry! I've been busy creating a new body of figurative work for an upcoming exhibit. This painting, of Wanjiru with a red moon, is a new one. This series is of bodies in nature, and I wanted to paint a strong, beautiful, badass woman who is deeply connected to nature. 

An ongoing series combines 2 of my passions: Art and Animals! I'm delighted to share these humorous paintings, because I think we all need to smile more. Nothing is cuter than animals photobombing: they live in the moment and are unconcerned with documenting their lives on social media. Half the fun was pairing the perfect animal to iconic artwork. Choosing favorite artists to copy allowed me to study their works in depth. I didn't copy them "stroke for stroke" and I used my own color palette, but I followed them close enough that the viewer instantly recognizes the master work.

Homages to Frida Kahlo, Toulouse Lautrec, Jackson Pollock, Gustav Klimt, and Georgia O'Keefe are all 12" x 12," oil on aluminum panel.

Part of my series of bodies in nature, I chose a ballroom dancer for two reasons. First, it's a world I know well, as I was a competitive Latin dancer for over 20 years. Second, the dancer is a nice juxtaposition to the natural cavern background. This piece is a gentle reminder that we are connected to the natural world.

Third in my series of bodies in nature, I added a rich purple to my limited palette. This one came together so easily: my model Karla was a dream to work with, I got to use a kimono I bought (but never used) several years ago, and my godson Eli provided the perfect sky photo as reference. So many wonderful connections; the most important one being the deep connection all 3 of us have to the earth.

Note: if she looks overly tall, it's because I had her stand on a chair. I love the regal result!

What's cuter than an animal photobomb? Just for fun, I decided to combine my two favorite things: cute critters and iconic artworks.  It's a daunting task to copy master artists, so I gave myself permission to paint them my way, instead of trying to copy their strokes. I'm having so much fun, this is quickly turning into a series! Hope you enjoy them, too.

I'm Pretty and I know it (Warhol), 12" x 12"
Cats Don't Care (Van Gogh) (look closely to see the cat scratching the portrait), 12" x 12"
Mouse with a Pearl Necklace (Vermeer), 12" x 12"

I've always thought that reclining bodies are similar to rolling hills. This new series explores our connection to nature. If we acknowledge that connection, perhaps we can stop destroying the earth and her inhabitants.

My final piece for the Heroines + Warriors + Goddesses show at Link & Pin Gallery in Austin, Texas, September 1-30. (Reception is Sat, 9/8, 7-9 pm)

This one is close to home. Jennifer is an example that talent and discipline do pay off. I’ve embraced her limited palette (seen at the top of the painting), although our colors end up looking pretty different. When she told me she paints colors she would like to eat, this concept popped in my head. I hope this speaks to her playful side.