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.

I'm really looking forward to this show, honoring many amazing women who blazed a trail for us. Many thanks to Link & Pin for hosting the three of us! Please join us for the reception on September 8 from 7-9 pm.

Pflugerville Public Library | July 14-September 13
(opening reception Sunday, July 15, 4-6 pm)

Artists: Meena Matocha | Akirash | Rhea Pettit | Gabe Langholtz | Amie Stone King | Wendy Layne

I'm so excited to be part of this show! It all started when I found out that Meena Matocha, an artist friend of mine, lives a mere 3 blocks from me. We wondered what other Austin artists actually live in Pflugerville (one exit north of Austin).

Meena spearheaded this project, which is sponsored by Pflugerville Arts Council; she found and invited the artists. We are showing narrative work, and there is a story behind each piece; genres include figurative, still life, collage, and abstract sculpture.

Some I've shown with in the past, and some are new friends. All are incredibly talented artists, whether they are emerging or established creators.

We hope this show creates interest in local art, and to find other Pflugerville artists and build our community here.

This venue is family friendly, so come meet us and see some great art!

Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the second female Supreme Court Justice. She posesses a brilliant mind (graduated at the top of her class at Columbia Law School), and a wicked sense of humor. She loves the nickname "Notorious RBG," even though she prefers opera to rap music.  A new film of her life is in the works, starring Felicity Jones as Ruth, and Armie Hammer as her husband Marty. They were an amazing couple: brilliant, progressive, and totally in love with each other.

This portrait will be in a three-person show at Link and Pin Gallery in Austin in September.

16" x 20," Oil on Aluminium

A show honoring "women who have defined their own worlds and who have interpreted life as one that is open to all possibilities." I submitted 3 portraits of women who I felt embodied that definition, and happily all 3 were accepted into the show!

Jane Goodall, for her groundbreaking work with chimpanzees as well as her lifelong mission to save the planet.

Ruby Bridges, a portrait of bravery. I can't fathom the strength it took for this 6 year old to walk through a gauntlet of hate every day to and from school.

The Girl with the Me Too Tattoo. Part homage to a strong fictional character (Lisbeth Salander) and a shoutout to all the brave, everyday women who are finding their voices in the Me Too movement.

The opening reception on April 7 was a huge success. I snapped a few pictures before it got too busy.

The Williamson Museum on the square in Georgetown is featuring my art the month of March. The artist reception is Friday, March 2 from 6-8 pm. This is happening on "First Friday" when businesses stay open late for shopping, strolling and fine dining. It should be a fun night on the square!

"Connection and Conversation" includes oil portraits of animals, people, and "mashups" (my spirit animal series, combining people with other species).

Another in my series of badass women. The character Lisbeth Salander from the Millennium series personifies strength. She uses her brain and hacker skills to outwit evil people; her online name is Wasp. If you haven't read this series by Stieg Larsson (or seen the 3 Swedish films starring Noomi Rapace or one American film starring Rooney Mara), I highly recommend them! I read that a new movie of the 4th novel (The Girl in the Spider's Web by David Lagercrantz) is in the works starring The Crown's Claire Foy.

This will be included in a 3-woman show in September at Link & Pin Gallery in Austin, Texas.

20" x 24," oil on canvas