With roots in both art and marine science, my creative path has always been closely tied to the ocean. Years of diving and swimming have given me an intimate understanding of marine life, its beauty, complexity, and fragility.
Through bronze sculptures and expressive abstract paintings, I translate these experiences into visual form. My work celebrates the ocean’s vibrant life while drawing attention to the urgent need for conservation.
The ocean is more than a subject, it’s my second home, and through my art, I hope to inspire others to protect what we’re so lucky to have.
With a background in art, marine biology, and oceanography, I’ve explored the ocean firsthand through diving and swimming, experiences that deeply influence my work. My bronze sculptures and vibrant abstract paintings celebrate the beauty and fragility of marine life, aiming to inspire conservation and awareness.
One project close to my heart is the Stingray Awareness public art initiative, inspired by my frequent encounters with stingrays on local beaches. With over 30,000 stingrays near the San Gabriel River alone, this project promotes safety and education, including the simple yet vital “Stingray Shuffle.”
A highlight of my career is “Fever”, a sculpture exhibited at the National Sculpture Society in NYC that reflects my deep connection to the sea. My mission is to protect our oceans and educate others, through art, action, and advocacy.
Every creation serves the purpose of educating and instilling love and respect for sea life. While nothing compares to the sheer joy of being in the ocean, I aim to motivate viewers by portraying its beauty, encouraging them to embrace its role in supporting the world beneath the waves. Join me in this journey of understanding, appreciation, and preservation.
1998-2000 Palomar College, San Marcos, CA, Fine Art Degree
1996-1998 Palomar College, San Marcos, CA, Graphics Arts and Design Degree
1983-1985 San Diego, CA San Diego State University, District Teaching Credential
1980- 1980 University of California at Irvine, Irvine, CA, Bachelor Degree, Dance
1978- 1979 San Diego State University, Dance
1976-1978 United States International University, San Diego, CA Dance
1973-1976 Palomar College, San Marcos, CA, Associate Arts Degree
workshops
Sebastian Capella, La Jolla, CA. Spanish Impressionist Painter
Perrieta Hester, La Jolla, CA. American Artist Co-Foundry of the San Diego Portrait Society
Jeff Watts Atelier, Encinitas, CA.
Robert Watts, Plein Air Instructor
Ron and Vanessa Lemen Studio 2nd Street Art School
Bill Perkins Workshops, Pasadena, CA
Mike Olgenmeyer Workshops Laguna Beach, CA
Michael Streinagle Workshops San Diego County, CA
Mau-kun Yim Workshop, Encinitas, CA
2021 – Wild & Beautiful, San Diego Botanic Garden with Oceanside Museum of Art Artist Alliance
2021– Center on the Center, Huntington Beach Art Gallery, Huntington Beach, CA
2020 to Present – Corner Frame Shop & Leucadia Art Gallery, Leucadia, CA
2019 – Inspired, the 6th Annual Artist Council Exhibition, Huntington Beach Art Gallery, Huntington Beach, CA
2019 – First California Exhibit, National Sculpture Society Gallery, New York, NY
2019 – San Diego Artist Guild San Diego Museum of Art, San Diego, CA
2015 – Forest & Ocean Gallery, Laguna Beach, CA
2015 – Front Porch Gallery, Carlsbad, CA
2014 – Del Mar Art Gallery, Del Mar, CA
2014 – La Jolla Artist Guild, La Jolla, CA
2012 – Solo Show, Larry Stein Gallery Hillcrest, San Diego, CA
2008 to 2011 – San Clemente, CA
2008 San Clemente Artist Guild, San Clemente, CA
2007 to 2020 – Off Track Gallery, Encinitas, CA
2007 to 2019 – San Dieguito Artist Guild, Encinitas, CA
2006 – Escondido Artist Guild, Escondido, CA
2011 to 2017 – Open Studio Life Drawing Art Studio Coordinator, North County of San Diego, CA
2009 to 2020 – Board of Directors, San Dieguito Art Guild, Encinitas, CA
2006 to 2007 – San Diego Community College Associate Professor of Older Adults, San Diego, CA
2003 to 2010 – Palomar Community College Adjunct Art Instructor
August 9, 2019: San Dieguito Art Guild Member wins acceptance into the National Sculpture Society, “California Sculpture Exhibition”, Encinitas Advocate, Encinitas, CA.
May 25, 2007: “Locals bring out their artistic sides,” The Arts, The Coast News, by Chrystall Kanyuck, San Marcos, CA.
