Evolution of an Artist: Then and Now

When I look back on my journey as an artist, it feels like a winding path made of paint, stories, and a lot of stubborn perseverance. Starting out, I didn't have a clear roadmap, and maybe that's the point—our evolution as artists isn't about reaching a destination; it's about finding purpose, refining our voices, and connecting on a deeper level with ourselves and others.

In the Beginning: A Need to Create

Every artist has that moment, that undeniable pull to pick up a brush or pencil and make something. About ten years ago, I wasn't aiming to change the world. I was just driven by an urge to create, to make something that was mine. My early pieces were raw, explorative, and deeply personal. I didn't always know what I said with each brushstroke, but I knew I needed to say it.

At the time, I was fascinated by women's strength—an interest that came from the incredible women I encountered in every corner of the world. Each one had her own story, quiet resilience, and a beauty that wasn't tied to anything external. This fascination became a thread in my work that has only deepened over time. Those early years were about observing, absorbing, and putting my emotions on the canvas in ways I didn't fully understand then, as seen in my early portraits.

Finding My Voice

Over time, though, something began to shift. I was no longer just experimenting; I was searching for something specific. I was learning to tell "my" story through the lens of all these incredible women I had met and admired. My voice started to emerge, clearer and bolder, and my work's themes of resilience, power, and femininity grew more defined. You can see this evolution in my transitional pieces. I was stitching pieces of myself from each place, person, and experience.

This was also the phase when I wrestled with self-doubt. Not having an academic background in art sometimes made me wonder if my work was taken seriously or even mattered. But over time, I learned to silence that noise. The work had meaning because it had a purpose, and I had a message. I knew what I wanted to say mattered, even if I was the only one who truly believed it initially.

Here and Now: Art with Purpose

Today, my art is more than just a personal outlet—it's a way to connect. Every painting, every exhibition, every interaction I have with people who view my work is a conversation. I'm no longer just painting what I feel; I'm painting what others can feel. This shift has made the work more intentional and given it a direction that's as much about others as it is about me.

With my upcoming solo exhibition, "Boundless: Women's Stories Painted Bold," I'm excited to share these stories with the world. Each piece in the collection isn't just a portrait or a scene—it's an invitation to see the depth, beauty, and strength of women from all walks of life. It's about "us", not just "me". You can get a sneak peek of this collection in my preview piece.

Moving Forward: Where the Journey Leads

As much as I cherish where I am now, I know this isn't the end of my evolution. I want my art to grow, to continue telling stories, and to empower others along the way. I envision a future where my work extends beyond the canvas and becomes a source of strength for other women—whether through mentorship, coaching or simply sharing experiences that inspire others to embrace their own power.

In the end, an artist's evolution isn't about reaching an end goal. It's about staying open to the changes, letting each moment shape the work, and allowing every interaction to deepen the connection. The beauty of this journey lies in its fluidity, openness, and honesty.

If you're on your path as an artist, my advice is this: don't rush. Your voice, purpose, and connection will all come in time. Embrace every twist and turn, and trust that every step, every brushstroke, and every risk you take is bringing you closer to where you're meant to be.

To see where this journey has brought me today, check out my latest work.