As a passionate art advocate, my journey began in the heart of my home—as a stay-at-home mother raising two children. What initially seemed like a full-time role limited to my immediate family soon became the foundation of a profound realization: motherhood is more than caregiving; it is an art form in itself. It is an opportunity to embody resilience, self-care, and self-love while serving as a guiding light for others. I quickly learned that the lessons I wished to instill in my children—compassion, strength, and love—were lessons I also needed to embrace in my own life.
Motherhood brought to light an essential truth: an empty glass cannot pour into another. To nurture and care for others, I first had to cultivate love and care for myself. This revelation not only deepened my understanding of my own role as a mother but also expanded my sense of empathy far beyond my immediate circle of family and friends.
During those early years, I found myself thinking deeply about the struggles faced by countless children and families around the world—particularly those who, due to circumstances beyond their control, were unable to experience the warmth and stability of a nurturing environment. As I navigated the challenges and joys of motherhood, I felt a growing sense of responsibility to extend my love, time, and effort to those outside my own home.
This desire led me to embark on a mission to serve underprivileged children globally, as well as immigrant and refugee communities in Central Ohio. I worked with families who had been displaced, children who lacked access to education, and individuals searching for a sense of belonging in unfamiliar environments. Through these efforts, I discovered fulfillment in the simple act of giving—providing love, support, and hope to those who needed it most. It was a transformative experience that taught me the boundless power of connection and kindness.
My passion for helping others soon found a creative outlet through art. Inspired by my experiences and the stories I encountered, I created a signature form of performance art in which I became a human canvas. This unique practice invites others to paint on me, using colors, shapes, and patterns to express their emotions, stories, and creativity. Each brushstroke represents an exchange—an opportunity to connect, share, and heal together. It is a deeply intimate and collaborative process that fosters a sense of community and understanding.
The experience of becoming a human canvas has been nothing short of life-changing. It reflects my core belief that preserving self-love is essential for giving abundantly and meaningfully to others. Art, for me, is not just a form of expression; it is a bridge that connects people, transcending barriers of language, culture, and background. Through my work, I aim to remind others that they, too, have the power to create, heal, and inspire change.
This journey—from discovering the importance of self-love as a mother to channeling that love into art and advocacy—has been a testament to the strength of the human spirit. It has taught me that resilience is born from vulnerability, and that true fulfillment comes from using our unique gifts to uplift others.
Today, as I continue to embrace my role as an art advocate, mother, and community servant, I carry with me the lessons learned along the way: love begins within, and it grows infinitely when shared with the world.
