About Me
I’ve been passionate about art since my childhood. My parents wholeheartedly supported my creative pursuits and were genuinely excited about my journey as an artist. Their unwavering encouragement was instrumental in shaping my path, and I’m truly grateful for their support.
I pursued my Fine Arts degree at York University. To be candid, my experience there was somewhat challenging. My painting instructor didn’t share my political views and wasn’t as receptive to my ideas as I had hoped. Regrettably, I couldn’t find a mentor within the school, and I felt discouraged from continuing my artistic endeavours.
Upon graduation, I embarked on a transformative journey to Eastern Africa, specifically Mochudi, Botswana. There, I taught art and English classes for nine months. This experience left an indelible mark on me, influencing my work over the next two decades.
African Influence
My journey to Africa was nothing short of life-changing, both as a person and as an artist. From the moment I arrived, I was swept up in a world of color, rhythm, and spirit that stirred something deep within me. There was an energy in the air—a vibrancy in the people, the landscapes, the markets, and the music—that spoke directly to my soul. I found myself mesmerized by the intricate patterns, the bold colors, and the sense of life that seemed to flow effortlessly through everything around me. It was impossible not to be inspired.
What captivated me most was the African spirit itself: its resilience, joy, and unwavering connection to tradition. I was moved by the stories I heard, the lives I witnessed, and the deep sense of community that shaped everyday existence. It wasn’t just what I saw—it was what I felt. The spirit of Africa seeped into me, igniting a passion that would shape my art for years to come. Every brushstroke in the series I created after returning is a reflection of that energy, a translation of the life, movement, and vibrancy I experienced firsthand.
Completing this series was a deeply personal milestone, but shortly afterward, I received a grant from the Canada Council. That moment was more than professional recognition—
it was an affirmation that I was on the right path, ready to dedicate myself wholeheartedly to my art. It validated the years of devotion, the risks, and the emotional investment I had poured into my work. It gave me the courage to keep exploring, to keep pushing the boundaries of my creativity, and to allow the lessons and inspiration of Africa to guide me indefinitely.
Even now, long after returning home, Africa’s impact continues to shape everything I create. Its influence is woven into the textures, colors, and energy of my paintings. The sense of joy, resilience, and connection I witnessed continues to inspire me daily. When I paint, I am constantly reminded of that journey—of the people, the landscapes, the rhythm of life that first opened my eyes to new possibilities. It taught me to see more deeply, to feel more freely, and to approach my work with both reverence and curiosity.
This series is more than just a collection of paintings—it is a tribute to the African spirit that touched me so profoundly. It is a reflection of the inspiration, growth, and passion that Africa instilled in me, and a reminder that travel, culture, and human connection can leave a lasting imprint on an artist’s heart. Africa opened a door for me, and the light of that experience continues to guide my work, inspiring me for years to come.
