“Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep.”
Tammy Burgett
Bourbon Acquisition Specialist
My journey into the world of painting began as a way to navigate through the depths of grief. Art became my refuge, a sanctuary where I could immerse myself in colors and textures, finding a sense of calm and introspection while allowing emotions to flow freely onto the canvas. My work is a testament to the transformative power of creativity, serving as a meditative practice that transcends sorrow into solace.
As a self-taught artist, my creative journey is an exploration of the world around me, specifically the waterways, landscapes and flora of Southeastern Virginia. The spontaneity of alcohol inks perfectly complements my artistic process, allowing me to embrace the unpredictable and unexpected, infusing a sense of joy and playfulness into my work. The vibrant colors and whimsical nature of alcohol ink allows me to bring my unique perspective to life, and each piece is a testament to the joy I find in embracing the unexpected.
Inspired by the beauty of nature, my pieces capture the dynamic interplay of colors and textures found in the ever-changing scenery of Southeastern Virginia. Each creation is a lively reflection of the landscapes that surround me, becoming a visual expression of the beauty and diversity that defines this region.
My art is an invitation to experience the world through a lens of vibrant hues and joyful expressions. It is my hope that viewers will feel the same sense of delight and connection to nature that fuels my creative journey, and be reminded of the inherent harmony that exists within and around us, even amidst life’s most challenging moments.
Vibrant color brings me to life.
I use alcohol ink because of the bold, saturated colors. My inspiration is nature, loosely interpreted, and landscapes, waterways, sunrises and sunsets are prominently featured in my work. My pieces attempt to join the joy of abandon with color to create bold, bright, daring work that transports the viewer to the magical space I’ve created. Everything is captured in the spontaneous dance and movement of the brush as it meets the paper; there is no going back and correcting when painting with alcohol ink.
Past Festivals, Shows and Exhibitions:
Nansemond-Suffolk Academy Art Show 2015-present
Hampton Art League Small Works Show 2019-present
Smithfield Boardwalk HeART Show 2018-2020
Smithfield Autumn Art Show 2020-2022
Smithfield Arts Festival 2022-present
Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts
Solace: Healing Through the Arts 2021
Everyone Has a Story 2023
Suffolk Art League Members Exhibition 2019-present
Hampton Art League Members Exhibition 2019-present
Smithfield Art League Members Exhibition 2017-present
“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.”
“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up. ”
“Art should comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable.”