Animals and nature have always been my passion. As a child, I saved spiders from bathtubs, read books high up in an old apple tree, and lost track of time exploring trails and creeks near my house. In college, I earned a degree in zoology and immersed myself in the studies of taxonomy, comparative anatomy, and ethology. Diving deep into the biological sciences, I learned about ecosystems and the delicate balance of nature. I began working at zoos, wildlife centers and vet offices and volunteered with humane societies, Guide Dogs for the Blind, and even a chimpanzee sanctuary. Somewhere along the way, I began sketching the animals, then painting them . . . always seeking a new way to connect with them and better understand their world. When my career took a detour into education and I became a school librarian, I discovered the power of storytelling and its ability to engage, educate and inspire. I began studying illustration and took classes in digital painting and design. I honed my skills by accepting art commissions and went on to create hundreds of digital paintings for individuals, businesses, and nonprofits. Today, my art is a true reflection of the paths my life has taken. Combining the techniques and subject matter of scientific illustration with the narrative aspects of storytelling, I hope my art will foster a deeper sense of empathy and appreciation for other living things and remind us all of the extraordinary natural world that surrounds us and our vital role in its preservation.

P.S. I still save spiders from bathtubs