Fantastical Escape Fall 2024

When I was a young child, I moved from San Diego to North Carolina, and my backyard went from a simple tropical lawn to a wooded retreat. I spent countless hours exploring the woods and wandering through the creek, finding it to be a therapeutic escape. Even now, I still love hiking in nature. I also asked my husband about his childhood escape, and he said it was "Jurassic Park." Others who have viewed this piece in person often mention seeing the jungle from The Jungle Book or the Forbidden Forest from Harry Potter. No matter what you perceive, this scene can resonate with many. If you look closely, you'll find a glowing silhouette of a heart illuminated by the moonlight touching the trees and the clearing.

Who wouldn’t want to believe in tiny magical creatures that leave coins under your pillow or sprinkle pixie dust so you can soar off to Neverland and never grow up? This piece builds on one I created over the summer that was called Magical Escape. It goes deeper in their world that is within a patch of glowing wildflowers where fairies are very active. Look closely, and you’ll notice powdered oil paint scattered like pixie dust. Aside from all of the whimsical meaning behind this piece, a deeper meaning is that you should never give up hope for what you believe!

I set out to create a whimsical, Tim Burton-inspired Wonderland. Look closely, and you’ll find hints of the Cheshire Cat’s colors, the Queen of Hearts, and the enchanting All in the Golden Afternoon flowers woven throughout.

This piece was inspired by the talented performers I had the pleasure of witnessing during the Cary Ballet Company rehearsal for The Nutcracker, which will be performed for the public on December 7th at the Fletcher theater. There will also be 7 shows the weekend 20th, 21st and 22nd at the Cary Arts Center. 

I was graciously given a tour of Cary Ballet Company, where I saw dedicated parents preparing the vibrant and dynamic costumes for the show. I also had the opportunity to sit in on several rehearsals, and inspired by the music and the dancers’ movements. Did you know that the Sugar Plum Fairy represents hope, faith, courage and transformation? The Nutcracker is filled with so many inspirational themes, and I truly enjoyed creating this piece.🩰