How did you first get involved with LVA?
I was first involved with LVA through Children's Fine Art Classes in middle school. What an incredible opportunity! My classes were at Spalding University - it was pretty motivating to be working in a college classroom as a youth.
When did you first know that art was going to be a big part of your life?
I knew it was a big part of my life then as a middle school student. I designed and painted some murals with my Girl Scout troop. The high school I attended, sacred Heart Academy in Louisville, offered an incredible art program - International Baccalaureate program. Art has always been a huge part of my life. It wasn't until I finished undergrad I really decided to start making art my career and making decisions that allowed me to invest the majority of my time into my art and create and develop a business from it.
What does LVA add to your life?
LVA adds an art community that I know is there for support. And now it is the new location for my studio!
How else are you involved in the community?
I do live painting events that allow further engagement with the community. I also have an ongoing project where I leave art throughout the city. It's more of a passive involvement but a way to create a catalyst for thought about our built environment. I am a 2016 graduate of Center for Neighborhood's Neighborhood Institute. Murals have been my goal for awhile and that is finally gaining momentum. I have completed a few interior murals for the Kroger Company through LVA and will have some other larger outdoor projects coming up in the future.
Describe your perfect Sunday afternoon.
Sundays are definitely my day I set aside for myself. Sometimes I'm still doing studio work through Sunday. I would say perfect Sunday after noon follows a solid week of art making maybe brief time in studio with trying some new things just to see what will happen. Check out a restaurant or cook and sit on patio... Followed by a long bike ride towards the waterfront hoping it has finally turned into a beach and then back to my couch!
Who is your favorite local artist?
Andrew Cozzens. It's always really difficult to pick one but his name popped up first today.
Where would you like to see Louisville 10 years from now?
A Light rail system! Encouraging a distinct break from the dependence on automobiles for transit. A thriving public art program with a significant impact and destination point for the community and visitors. An urban core with significantly increased density with many people living closer to downtown. More jobs attracting the creative class from larger cities. Galleries and art groups extending their reach to nationally increasing a contemporary art presence. More education about the importance of art in our communities.
What neighborhood do you live in?
I finally live in the Original Highlands. I think it's the best neighborhood in the city right now and have always wanted to live there.
What are some of your favorite things about it?
I can walk and bike to locations that define Louisville. As well as significant architecture that depicts history and sense of place for the city.
What advice would you give your past self if you could?
It all works out, trust yourself. Do what you want to do and go where you want to go.