When my youngest daughter was just a few weeks old, we found ourselves in the NICU for ten days. She had RSV, and nothing else mattered but her. I slept in a recliner by her side watching over her every moment. Later, at four months old, she developed severe allergies—red, itchy, and uncomfortable from head to toe. I was restless, trying to solve the problem, and it was heartbreaking to see her struggle. During those sleepless days, I painted a few sleeping baby animals for her nursery.

While those paintings were meant for her, I realize now they were just as much for me. They brought me comfort and peace in a time of uncertainty, and they planted the seed for a collection I’ve wanted to create ever since.

This year, I finally brought that vision to life with my latest collection, Dreaming in the Wild. Inspired by the beauty and restoration found in embracing our natural rhythms, this collection reflects the profound benefits of rest and time in nature. Born from a desire to encourage slow moments within my own family, these minis invite us to pause, drift, and renew, echoing nature’s gentle reminder that rest can restore balance, creativity, and calm for all ages.

Bringing the Collection to Life

Creating this collection has been a deeply therapeutic process. From imagining the resting animals to painting botanical abstractions inspired by nature’s rhythms, each mini tells its own story. The process itself has been magical—a way to pause, reflect, and pour intention into each piece.

When it came time to showcase the collection, I knew I wanted the photographs to reflect its inspiration: the forest behind my childhood home. Collaborating with Tina Crespo on the photography was pure joy. Her artistry brought the collection to life in a way I couldn’t have imagined. We even introduced live snails I collected from my garden into the styled background, creating a terrarium for them to move freely on the set. They added a touch of whimsy and magic that perfectly captured the spirit of the collection.

The Magic of Minis

This is my fourth year participating in the 25 Days of Minis, a celebration of small artworks shared by a collective of artists throughout December. I love the tradition of releasing one mini painting each day leading up to Christmas. It’s such a meaningful way to connect with collectors and share the magic of the holiday season.

These minis hold a special place in my heart. They’re more than just paintings—they’re symbols of rest, renewal, and the joy of small, intentional moments. I imagine them in your spaces, bringing a bit of calm and beauty into your life. Whether it’s a sleeping fox, a chipmunk nestled in the grass, or a botanical abstraction that invites pause, my hope is that each piece feels like a gentle invitation to slow down.

Looking Ahead

While these paintings are available now as part of the 25 Days of Minis, they’re also part of a larger story. I’m working on a children’s book inspired by this collection, designed to encourage rest for both little ones and their grown-ups. It’s a project close to my heart, rooted in my own journey as a mother and my belief in the restorative power of slowing down.

Finding Your Moment

Dreaming in the Wild is a collection inspired by the beauty and restoration found in embracing our natural rhythms. My hope for this collection is simple: that it inspires you to pause, rest, and see the beauty in life’s quiet moments. Whether you take home a mini or simply follow along as each piece is unveiled, I hope you feel a bit of the magic and intention behind every brushstroke. Thank you for being part of this journey with me.