After graduating from SUNY Oswego with a BFA I quickly learned that the world of fine arts wasn't for me. However a short lived stint in the theater world ignited a new interest into the worlds of scenic painting, special FX makeup, and especially cartoons. 

While attending SUNY Oswego I was able to work backstage on two separate productions before covid inevitably shut us down. Nonetheless, the groundwork was laid and I always kept a path to theater in the back of my mind. After an internship at The REV Theatre Co. in Auburn, NY,  the path has come to light and I hope to continue with production and backstage work.

Seasonally, I have been able to keep this going by working at Frightmare Farms in Palermo, NY. A deep love of all things creepy crawly led me to working there getting actors into haunt/trauma makeup to further push the illusion of their characters. It has been a great way to experiment with the power of makeup while also getting to experience Halloween for an extra month or two. 

The best part of painting though has been escaping into the world of cartoons. Cartoons have always been a source of palatable entertainment through rough times in my life and I have always appreciated nonsensical use of color and the freedom to break conventional rules of reality. After starting to sell my work both locally at craft fairs and online all across the country it has been amazing to see the light and joy my work can bring to people. Although I often find myself in independent or leadership roles it has been great to branch out and find community wherever I go. Being surrounded by people willing to teach me has allowed me to keep pushing myself to excel at new things.

Based around the woods, lakes, and rivers of Central, NY I try to get outside with whatever time I can. Whether it be to ride my bike around the lake or travel for concerts, I always have that next adventure planned.