Executed almost entirely with brushed-on India Ink, this piece ties together the qualities and ideals that I value and honor in women: strength, focus, resilience and determination. “Xhosa Woman” was created to boldly depict these qualities and to honor all women.

Though standing still, we can see the resolve and strength in her to keep going. I find inspiration for this piece from the timeless wealth of African culture and history—both past and modern.

And I love the interplay of rhythmic brushstrokes and carefully-layered ink textures that harmonize to reveal the strong and proud Xhosa Woman.

Everyone has a story to tell, whether young or old, poor or rich. Some stories are more compelling than others.

This original acrylic painting depicts a moment in the life of a poor man (Lazarus), who humbly seeks the help and support of others. The rich man, however, sees no need to stop and engage Lazarus. By his hasty and evasive strides, the rich man, refuses to enter into the world of Lazarus' need.

This work tells a story of two men and speaks to their realities in ways that reflect society today. The idea was birthed and conceptualized from a reading of a Biblical story (Luke 16:19-31) bearing the same characters, and I chose to put a modern spin on an ancient text.

“It is in your hands to create a better world for all who live in it.”

— President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela

The beauty, poise and grace of a stunning South African princess is captured here, presenting a moment of peace and serenity for her. Executed with a stippling technique, I embraced the challenge of capturing the various textures of skin, jewelry, hair, and neck beads with India Ink artist pens mixed with watercolor.

Artist pens enable me to capture the intrigue of all the subtle details of this image. And working with the medium is even more dynamic when combined with vibrant watercolors.

Viewers may find themselves on a journey, into her gaze or into her thoughts to consider what brings such peace to this elegant princess.

This original conceptual work reflects a time of great peace, purposeful intention and inner reflection. It symbolically connects the subject with the freedom and strength of a majestic eagle, as an early morning, and secluded, moment of baptism is taken in.

As water is known to purify, this piece welcomes viewers to find the inner peace of letting go and starting anew.

I have always been fascinated with the overlapping geometric shapes and shadows of Cubism, and chose to bring that style to bear on the development of this original pen & ink work.

What does this original piece, "Let It Rain," say to you?

In life's circumstances, some of us are the umbrella (we are a source of shelter and protection to others, while we ourselves are impacted by the elements); some are the hand holding the umbrella (we are the strength, support and reliability behind the scenes); and some are the other hand experiencing the rain (we are willing to go out of our comfort zone for the sake of others).

This work inspires me to weather the storms and, perhaps, even symbolically be the umbrella and both hands to those in need.

Based on your experiences, can you see yourself in this painting?