As a child, I spent my time outside of school in the wild land around my Oregon home; a wild, forested landscape that drew me to the animals that inhabit the land, water and sky. Their diversity and complexity has always intrigued me. Exploring my curiosity and affinity toward a particular species led me to read about the importance of animals in Native American culture. In some Native cultures, animals serve as guardians and guides through the concept of animal totems. Totem comes from the Ojibway word dodaem, which translates to “brother/sister/kin”. Some Native Americans believe each individual inherits a totem animal at birth that serves as a guide, teacher and guardian throughout that individual’s life.

Over the years, I’ve had quite a few marked encounters with owls. Their feathers line the trails that I run near my home. Their silent flights visit my dreams. Their eye-locking gaze haunts me, watches me and protects me. Whenever I feel at a loss for where to begin on a white sheet of paper, the owls come naturally. Over the years, their presence has gained emotional energy that I believe reflects my own emotional and spiritual evolution.

The other animals that fills cafes and galleries around Seattle, make their way into magazines and onto greeting cards are dear to me too. My intention is to honor the wisdom that each animal imparts. The form these creatures take on paper aims to capture their unique qualities and movement. I enjoy the dramatic nature that drawing in black and white offers. All of my work is done in pen and ink. I don’t sketch. This medium challenges me to be intentional and to commit to my intuition. Part of the art is remaining open to what grows and emerges on paper. This mystery of unfolding through ink is one I am endlessly drawn toward.

“I believe in kindness. Also in mischief. Also in singing, especially when singing is not necessarily prescribed.”
― Mary Oliver