A devoted animal and nature lover from a young age—think rescuing spiders from bathtubs and offering water to struggling bees--I decided early on that I wanted a career working with animals. I earned a degree in zoology, diving deep into the studies of animal anatomy, behavior and ecology. Working in zoos, primate centers and veterinary hospitals, I gained new understanding about the resilience, vulnerability, and unique spirit of every living creature. Along the way, I began sketching animals. Initially, this was a tool to gain a deeper understanding of their anatomy and behavior, but it quickly evolved into a powerful path for connection and expression. I started taking reference photos, enrolled in scientific illustration courses and joined community art groups, all while drawing inspiration from artists like Robert Bateman, Sue Ellen Ross, and Maria Sibylla Merian.

With the arrival of my young and growing family, my career focus took a detour into education and I became an elementary school librarian. I loved teaching curious-minded students and opening doors to discovery and information. I also learned the power of storytelling and its ability to engage, educate, and connect. Fueled by these insights, I began studying picture book illustration and took classes in digital art and design. Soon, I was accepting art commissions, honing my skills by creating hundreds of custom pieces for individuals, businesses, and nonprofits.

Today, my art truly reflects the paths my life has taken. Still passionate about animals and our environment, my imagery often explores ecological themes like adaptation, biodiversity, and interconnectedness. My love for storytelling, the process of setting scenes and defining characters, is evident in my children's illustrations but is also a vital part of my eco-art. I aim to capture specific moments in an animal's life story, using narrative elements like perspective, symbolism, and juxtaposition to depict their challenges and behaviors especially in relation to humans. Through these visual stories, my hope is to strengthen our connection with other living things and inspire appreciation and wonder for our incredible natural world.