Q&A

In ten words or less, who are you as an artist?

Evolving. I’m constantly searching to create an emotional connection with the viewer.

What, or who, is your greatest source of inspiration?

I’m inspired by light, color, and certainly nature. And I’m a big believer in the practice of daily painting. It has trained me to see the world with more clarity, appreciation and delight!

It is so generous that you and J.McLaughlin are working together to raise money for a nonprofit. What made you choose Steppingstone?

Bonnie Nelson, the store manager in Chestnut Hill, reached out to me and asked if I’d like partner again with J.McLaughlin. I showed my work there last year and it was a great experience. Bonnie said she wanted to host a Sip and Shop event at the store during the holidays to support a Boston area non-profit organization, preferably one that focused on young people. I told her about how Steppingstone takes the long view, working with students from fifth grade, to ensure they not only have access to a college education, but that they are successful, every step of the way. I didn’t have to convince her. Giving back to the community is part of the corporate culture of J.McLaughlin. For every item sold at the store—clothing and artwork, we’ll be donating a generous percentage to Steppingstone.

What advice might you give a Scholar who is pursuing a career in visual arts?

I’d encourage them to explore all the various opportunities that exist in this space, from being a gallerist, art therapist, graphic designer, to having a studio practice and being a painter or a sculptor. Get out there. Talk to people who are doing things that interest you. Art is a calling, in many ways. You can work in finance or accounting or sales but if you’re interested in art, you can take classes, and carve out time to create. You’ll never regret it.