Artist
22 Years Old • Johnstown
Tell us about yourself, your history and how you came to be where you are now.
I was raised in Montana’s Bitterroot Valley, where wildflowers and mountains shaped my early love for nature and beauty. During my teenage years, life at home became turbulent: My father’s struggle with alcoholism coincided with my older brother, who is my greatest supporter, leaving for college. That period marked a personal unraveling, as I lost my sense of direction and self-worth. It was through painting that I began to find myself again. Art became both a refuge and revelation, reconnecting me with the freedom I had known as a child.
Explain your career, achievements and professional highlights.
Last year, I was able to quit my job after working as a barista for most of my teens. Though it’s still early in my journey as a professional artist, I’ve poured years into studying classical techniques and the great masters to build a foundation of skill and intention in my work. I’m still learning, growing and chasing my goals, both creatively and in business. Today, I have the joy of sharing my paintings locally at Sweet Heart Winery & Event Center in Loveland, and I’m honored to be part of such a supportive and inspiring community.
In what ways do you give back to the community?
This year, I began coaching students through the Milan Art Institute, the very place that gave me the foundation and confidence to launch my own career as an artist. It has been deeply fulfilling to help other artists grow their skills and pursue their dreams. I also love hosting paint-and-sip events, where I get to share time-tested painting techniques in a fun, relaxed environment. These gatherings have become a beautiful way to connect with fellow creatives and entrepreneurs in my community.
What do you consider the biggest accomplishment or challenge you’ve overcome, either professionally or personally?
For me, it’s been staying true to my voice, even when it felt quieter than others. In the beginning, I thought I had to chase trends or fit into a certain style to be seen. But every time I tried that, my work felt disconnected from who I am. I wasn’t sure if anyone would connect with a soft approach, but the moment I stopped trying to impress and started trying to express, everything shifted.
Tell us something unique about you.
Something unique I’ve been given is the eyes to notice beauty in subtle places. Whether it’s a torn book page, a soft color or a gentle moment, I feel deeply drawn to the small, simple beauties of life. I try to carry that same attentiveness into my art, creating pieces that speak softly but stir something deep and meaningful in the hearts of others.
Where do you see yourself in five years? In 10 years?
In five years, I hope to be creating artwork that reaches even deeper into people’s hearts—work that invites stillness, reflection and a sense of peace—especially amid a busy and often overwhelming world. I want my paintings to feel like a quiet breath, a reminder that beauty, faith and rest are always available. My deepest hope is to raise a family and cultivate a career that is rooted in love and faith.
What piece(s) of advice would you give to your younger self?
I would tell her that you don’t have to be loud to be seen. Your gentleness is a strength, not a flaw. I grew up often feeling like I had to prove myself, to be more outgoing or polished to be taken seriously. But over the years, I’ve learned that quiet voices still carry power and that softness, when rooted in truth, can move people in profound ways.
How would you define your artistic style, and how did you develop it?
If I were to define my style, I might say it’s abstract impressionism. I am striving to marry loose and expressive backgrounds with impressionistic brushstrokes and forms. I developed my style by studying master techniques, experimenting regularly and spending a lot of time looking at and learning from other artists’ work. I believe that my style progressed naturally through many hours behind the brush, learning about what I find beautiful and discovering the “why” behind my passion.
How did you get into live wedding painting?
I’ve always adored romance. The beauty of choosing one person for a lifetime is unmatched in my eyes. I started painting subjects around love and commitment, which naturally led me to the world of weddings. From there, I connected with an amazing community of wedding vendors and began live painting at events and weddings. I think that I have found a lot of success in this area for having a more artistic and soft way of painting. The impressionism style is so romantic and lends itself perfectly to capturing an enchanted moment.
Local business shoutout:
I of course must shout out my husband, Hazen, and his business, JHJ Window Cleaning. Hazen is the most dependable and hardworking man I know, and he has built his business around incredible customer service and quality work. He has encouraged me to work hard on my own goals and inspires me to become the best person I can be. I’ve seen firsthand how much pride he takes in his work and his love for serving people well.
