I’ve been drawing for as long as I can remember—always a little squirrel-brained, full of energy, and endlessly curious. I was born in Dallas, Texas to immigrant parents, and from a young age, I witnessed their dedication, creativity, and resilience. That shaped not only my work ethic but also the way I approach life and art—with purpose, heart, and gratitude.

I earned my Bachelor of Fine Arts from Wichita State University and later pursued an MBA from Friends University. While my professional path led me to work in higher education, art was always nestled in the background—quiet, but persistent. It wasn’t until a few years ago, after a shift in my work-life balance and the loss of my beloved mother, that I began fully embracing my art again. That shift rekindled something in me, and I began telling stories in a new way—through whimsical, heartfelt illustrations filled with symbolism and memory.

Most of my artwork is created using charcoal and ink, though I love experimenting with watercolor and colored pencil as well. I don’t lock myself into one style—I let the story lead the way. Those stories are told through animals who represent the people I love most—my “animal pack.” One of my most personal series is Panda and Squirrel, which honors the bond between my mom (my Pandita) and me. Pieces like Squirrel’s Final Glance explore love, grief, and connection in a way that makes people smile, even through tears—and that’s the magic I aim for.

My work is deeply personal, often wordless, and full of feeling. It’s storytelling through posture, expression, and a dash of whimsy. I create to remember, to honor, and to connect—and I hope that, in some small way, my art becomes part of someone else’s story too.