For the artist, people have always been front and center in her artwork.

As a kid, growing up in a large working class family mired with mental illness, escaping from the pain and confusion, she transported herself Into these subjects and lived their lives. She didn’t share that with her subjects…it was her own secret she kept safe to herself.

As a young mother juggling kids and college, she again transported herself, escaping from the noise and emotion , more for peace and quiet…again not sharing this secret with her subjects.

And now she is not escaping, but just discovering their shapes, colors and movement. She is a lot braver now and gets to know her subjects in real life. Part of her still wants to hide…but we’re working on that.

This work, Carousel Bar, Hotel Monteleone, French Quarter, New Orleans, captures a moment where a tourist takes a selfie in front of an absolutely gorgeous, carnival-like carousel bar. Patrons at the bar enjoying a drink and conversation and bartenders rushing to serve said clients fill the background underneath the carnival beauty of the carousel