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.
While earning my Fine Arts degree at York University, I faced a challenging environment. Differences in political views and artistic vision with my instructor left little room for the mentorship I needed, leaving me temporarily discouraged in my creative journey.
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.
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 colour, rhythm and human dignity 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 enthralled with the community and I made it my goal to participate in the every day lives of the local community. 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 their stories, 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 and 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 and the emotional investment I had poured into my paintings. 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 through.
Even now, long after returning home, Africa’s impact continues to shape everything I create. Its influence is woven into the colours, 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 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.