I grew up in New Orleans and was intrigued by the charm of the old city and fascinated by the style and character of the antiques in my dad’s and grandfather’s antique gallery. That is where my love for art grew.

I began painting around the age of three. Although I don’t remember the story, my Mom recalls that the first time someone gave me some money, immediately I said, “Mommy, I really need to go buy some paint and brushes.” After years of practicing, I later attended the New Orleans Academy of Fine Arts.

After marrying and being blessed with children, we moved to Dallas, Texas. There I worked as a graphic artist and book illustrator. During this period of time in my life, I also found my biological family and found out that my birth mother had also been an artist who worked at Jackson Square. Life can be ever so interesting.

Art has had an impact on my life, I have constantly found myself setting newer and higher goals. Through this glorious spiral upward, I realized that the more I learn, the more I want to learn, grow, and discover. Art has helped in developing my character in many ways, with it I have learned to be patient, to be tenacious, and to be satisfied with obtaining goals I never thought I could reach.

I still sometimes do some book illustrating, create gallery paintings and commission works/portraits for people.
If you would like to discuss a commission project or portrait, please private message me.

Describe your art in three words. Real, Personal, Attentive

Describe yourself in one word. Soulful

What do you love the most about creating art in New Orleans? What particular part of your immediate environment, in your neighborhood specifically influences your work? Since I was very young, I have been captivated with the beauty of the lush trees and gardens throughout the city. I am in love with the old architecture in the city too, the craftsmanship used in days gone by, I marvel at it. I personally feel this level of skill and workmanship is rare in the culture we live in now.

Describe your creative process. Are there any rituals or rites of passage you exercise before you begin a new piece? I try to get the daily distractions out of the way first before I go into my zone. You know, the usual, bla-bla-bla, checking emails, paying bills, eating food (ha), etc. I work a lot of photography, so my first step is to get the best pictures I can. From my studio, I begin the artwork by carefully drawing out a “good foundation” for the painting. I proceed with layers of paints, a monochromatic underpainting, the slowing layers of paint and glazes.

Where do you draw inspiration? Art museums, music, life & love

Who are your artistic influences or gurus? Some of my favorite historical artists include Michelangelo, Monet, John Singer Sargent, and John Waterhouse. The incomprehensible vastness, diversity, and greatness of Michelangelo’s work have inspired a perfection I seek in my own work. Monet’s ability to capture a moment through his impressionist style, especially with the use of vibrant colors has encouraged me to take risks in my artwork. Sargent’s combination of impressionism and realism gave me an understanding of portraiture to catch an expression that conveys personality or feeling. Waterhouse creates a whimsical essence in his work that brings the people to life like characters in a story. William Adolphe Bouguereau's work had deeply impacted me, down to the core. I can remember as a little girl going to NOMA and seeing "Whisperings of Love" and honestly, just not wanted to leave this painting. The beauty of his work at times have moved me to tears.

In New Orleans, art and music go hand in hand. What type of music, band or song lyric best describes your work? My favorite New Orlean's singer is Barbarella Blue. She's not well known, but she's amazing. She takes the listener on a musical journey of blue eyed soul with each song.

Where can we find you when you are not creating art? Hanging out with my family, they’re the best part of my life.

What is your favorite time of day/day of the week/month of the year? My absolute favorite time of year is the spring. I want to be outside and exploring gardens, flowers & nature.

What is something people don’t know about you? A fun fact. My life’s desire has always been to be an artist... and a philanthropist.

All works listed online are available to be viewed at Where Y’Art Gallery by appointment.

Gallery 600 600 Julia Street New Orleans

Hermann-Grima Gift Shop 820 Saint Louis St. New Orleans

Items typically ship within 7-10 business days via UPS. A tracking number will be sent to your email. New Orleans pick-up from Where Y’art gallery is also available.

But please contact me if you have any problems with your order.

I gladly accept returns and exchanges.  Contact me within: 14 days of delivery

Ship items back within: 30 days of delivery

Private message me if you want to order a custom piece. Custom orders typically take 3 to 6 weeks for a small painting, from completion to delivery. Larger custom artwork takes longer.

For international shipping prices, rush orders or commissions, login in and send me a private message through the messaging tool on my profile page.