Chicago-based interdisciplinary artist focused on the intersection of emotion and memory. Creating work that evokes subtle or indescribable emotions— nostalgia for places unseen or compassion for someone never encountered. Obtained Bachelor of Fine Arts from Iowa State University, majoring in integrated Studio Art emphasizing high fire ceramics and painting. Currently, reframing focus, exploring various mediums, painting surfaces, and subjects to discover new themes to pursue.
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Exploring Emotion and Memory
STUDY ABROAD
Immersed in Art and History
While at Iowa State University, I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad in Rome. With all my courses in the Palazzo Cenci-Bolognetti, a 16th-century building near the Tiber River, I had the chance to immerse myself in the art and culture of the 2,776-year-old city. It was impossible not to find inspiration in the surrounding history—the works we got to stand in front of and learn about came to life, becoming experiences shaped by the centuries of people who have seen and interpreted them. I was particularly drawn to the experience of Caravaggio’s work, often returning to The Church of San Luigi dei Francesci to look at The Calling of Saint Matthew in different lights of day. I began discovering as much as possible about Carvaggio’s painting process, history, and the story behind his pieces. While experimenting with natural pigments and researching historical art techniques within my coursework, I discovered the art of egg tempera. Drawing from Caravaggio’s use of burnt umber, in combination with my experimentation in making egg tempura, I began creating a series that invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of human emotion.
PASSION PAINTING
Meals and Memories
While living in Rome, between absorbing as much art as possible and attending classes, I discovered one of my favorite restaurants with the best pastrami sandwiches. What started as a daily coffee stop became more meaningful: a place to practice my Italian, connect with familiar faces and share culture and experiences. During an oil painting study, I attempted to capture the lunch I wished I could enjoy every day forever. Giving the piece to my friends became part of what the work embodies—the power of connection, cultivating community, and sharing ideas and memories over a great meal.
ARTIST RESIDENCY
Artist Residency with The Bottega Projects
After completing my BFA, I was the artist in residence at The Bottega Projects in Montebuono, Italy. In a historic house built in 1595 tucked away in a fortified mountain town just an hour from Rome, I had the unique opportunity to plunge fully into the surrounding history. I had the space to explore the connections between medium, memory, and place.
The Bottega Projects focus on natural pigment production and education. They offer various workshops to guide people through the process and history. While there, I had the opportunity to collaborate with international artists, facilitate workshops, and learn about the region’s techniques and history of natural pigment production. I gained hands-on experience harvesting, processing, and making pigments, which I could then utilize in my art practice to make egg tempura paints, a technique rooted in ancient painting traditions typically made by mixing fresh egg yolks with processed powdered pigment.
Emerging Iowa Artist at the Des Moines Arts Festival 2023
In 2023, I had the privilege of participating in the Emerging Iowa Artist (EIA) Program, supported by Principal. This opportunity brought together five up-and-coming visual artists and offered a chance to grow creatively and professionally. Setting up my booth at the festival taught me the basics of being an artist in the festival world. Beyond showcasing my work, it was a great chance to connect with other artists and dive into the vibrant, supportive community. This experience truly expanded my understanding of the artistic landscape and what it means to be part of it.