In the enchanting realms of my kindergarten days, there existed a magical painting corner where I’d lose myself for hours. It was there that a perceptive teacher, whose name has faded in the sands of time, prophesied, “You are going to be an artist.” I often wonder about her fate, whether she still breathes the air of this world.
Art, as I learned early on, is a fleeting dance of moments, not a permanent fixture. It’s about capturing those ephemeral instances in time, fragile and easily obliterated. I found my passion in the chaos of creation, relishing the spontaneity and unpredictability of the artistic moment.
In high school, Mrs. Rob, a cool, fun, and slightly eccentric teacher, played a pivotal role during the tumultuous times of 11th grade, rekindling my connection with art. In my senior year, I immersed myself further, taking five art classes, seeking not only artistic skills but also the elusive approval that I yearned for. Another supportive teacher, whose name eludes my memory, played a crucial role during this transformative period.
Post-high school, my artistic journey took a scenic route reminiscent of Bob Ross’s nature scenes. In ’89, I delved into thicker paints and eventually applied to art school in Pittsburgh, focusing on illustration and graphic design.
I painted and worked as a designer during my artist journey. I moved to Europe believing after meeting the love of my life and decided I would be a successful artist there. I remember being on the plane and all of the stewardesses were looking at my paintings and being so impressed and supportive. . However reality and some insecurities at the time had other plans for me and multiple gallery visits left me shattered as my paintings faced harsh criticism. This setback in my artist journey led me to momentarily abandon art, pivoting toward digital design journey.
Like anyone in the world, I am multifaceted, and my artistic journey extends beyond the realms of art. Alongside my artistic pursuits, I delved into the discipline of martial arts, studying under masters and earning training certificates in Jeet Kune Do and Kali. This exploration of diverse passions and just living life has been integral to shaping my creative identity. I’ve always been recognized for my creativity, weaving together the tapestry of my life—filled with hobbies, work experiences, and artistic endeavors—to create a unique roadmap for my art. The fusion of martial arts discipline and the chaos of creativity has, in many ways, mirrored the dichotomy inherent in my artistic expression, creating a vibrant and eclectic canvas that reflects the rich tapestry of my experiences.
Falling in love with painting once more, the artist journey came full circle, bridging the gap between past and present. From the kindergarten’s painting corner experience to the turbulent high school days journey, the art gallery’s critique, and the hiatus during family life, art, resilient as ever, emerged from the pandemic’s shadows, proving that creative spirits, like the strokes on a canvas, can endure and thrive against all odds.
In the intricate mosaic of my life, I’ve explored diverse avenues beyond the realm of visual arts. Beyond wielding brushes and canvases, I’ve also embraced the written word, pouring my thoughts onto paper to express ideas and emotions. Additionally, the rhythmic vibrations of bass strings have resonated in my artistic journey and endeavors, as I’ve played in various bands, contributing to the musical tapestry that accompanies the chapters of my life. Whether crafting sentences or orchestrating bass lines, these artistic endeavors, along with my martial arts ventures, have become integral threads in the intricate fabric of my creative narrative, each contributing to the vibrant and dynamic roadmap that guides my artistic expression.
