Where do you live?
Originally a Jersey Girl, I’ve also lived in Ghana, Bhutan, England and a bunch of places in the Northeast USA. I am in Providence and my studio is in a restored mill building in Pawtucket.
How long have you been a member?
I think since 2012 or 2013? Soon after I moved to Rhode Island.
Do you currently volunteer?
Not with WAA, but I am fire-tender with WaterFire and also volunteer as an art therapist with support groups associated with specific populations such as Parkinsons Disease and Burn Survivors.
How long have you been a JAM?
Hmm … maybe since 2015? I was juried in as a painter and then my art practice has transitioned to include sculpture.
How would you describe your artwork?
Abstracted nature, figurative, fairytale and storytelling. I work in acrylic, ceramic, metal and found objects.
From where do you find your inspiration? From nature, anatomy (I work in healthcare), the interplay between humans and environment, world travel and volunteering, literature, activism, connection and community.
What is the most important thing that you want viewers to take away from your artwork?
That art surrounds us and is within us, all of us. That we are all connected whether you respond positively to what I create or not – to understand that art creates an ongoing relationship with others and in ourselves. To lean in and see the details of my pieces but also to see the message in the larger collective.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
In art and in life, fear is not real, it is a choice. (Danger is real). Do not let fear stop you in any endeavor. Say yes to it all. Do not hold back your potential for fear of change or of the unknown.
What is the most important skill you should have as an artist?
Being open and flexible and staying creative no matter how long you have been an artist. Make art for your own expression, not to fit someone else’s expectations or even your own! Keep experimenting, trying new mediums and approaches.
What is your favorite thing about the Wickford Art Association/ about being a member/Favorite Beach, Food, Restaurant?
I love the people of WAA! Everyone I have met through your organization has been absolutely lovely and positive and enjoys helping others be their best! I am also a huge fan of the little beach right outside! I always explore it when I dropoff or pick up from exhibits and have found an arrowhead, pottery, glass, driftwood and even rusty metal pieces for my sculptures!
What do you enjoy most about your artistry/being an artist?
The time of solitude and introspection in the creative process and then the beautiful community I have to share it with.
Do you have any upcoming shows?
There’s always something coming up! Please check out my website www.theartistinresidence.com or Instagram or Facebook under Chilly Chili Pepper. I also conduct healing arts sessions and small group lessons in ceramic hand-building at my studio space in Pawtucket.