This gouache collage was created through a multi-step process. First, I drew plants digitally. Then, I had my machine cut out every single flower and leaf for precision and cleanliness. The next step was hand-painting each one. The butterfly was painted and then hand cut. I assembled every plant together and added additional details before finally gluing down the Swallowtail Butterfly. This piece, The Joy of Change, focuses on the beauty and possibilities that come when we se

Have you ever heard of Exponent II? It’s a magazine the “provides feminist forums for women and gender minorities across the Mormon spectrum to share their divers life experiences in an atmosphere of trust and acceptance.” ( exponentii.org/about ) Exponent II has beautiful, thought-provoking art and writings that broaden the conversation around faith and life. And I am beyond thrilled to let you know that my piece entitled If I Am is going to be included in an upcoming issue.

I’ve been tinkering with this painting ever since the final iteration. Hahaha I wonder if artists who have been painting for years and years still tinker or if they get it Right the first time. I’m sure they’re a little more confident. I’ll bet they make fewer mistakes. But I’m sure they’re probably still prone to tinkering. There was a section of this painting by the front door where the railing just did not look right. I go with vibes, to be honest with you. So, I fixed it.

This past week my family and I spent several days at beautiful Bear Lake -- a gorgeous lake with turquoise water that rests on the border between Idaho and Utah. We spent most of our days soaking in the sunshine at the beach. It was truly an idyllic vacation. One thing that I have not done very often as an artist is paint outside from life. I usually take a long time to work on a painting and work to make it as close to perfect as I can. Painting from life means not having al