Artist's Bio

(Photo coming soon)

I have been an artist for as long as I can remember.  When some kids were watching cartoons or MTV, I was often at the dining room table with my crayons, colored pencils, or brushes.  Who knew not having cable would pay off?  Today I have less time to create new art, but when I do it’s often inspired by social issues I have experienced in Southern Africa, the US, or other parts of the world.

My deep interest in issues related to human rights and international development, particularly the challenges of poverty and inequality; racism; gender bias; and HIV/AIDS, led me to the University of KwaZulu-Natal in Durban, South Africa for my Masters degree.  When not studying, I explored South Africa and parts of Lesotho to absorb as much of the culture, sounds, smells, tastes, and sights as possible. 

Although I’m no longer in Africa, the everyday images of South Africans living in and coping with poverty made a lasting impression, especially the perseverance and hope that exists in humans’ determination to continue living despite their circumstances.  My most recent paintings depict scenes of poverty in order to: convey the reality of people living in poverty; create a record of customs; provide a social commentary from a new and unique perspective; and communicate the range of human actions, emotions, and cultures that can be found in the most challenging of human conditions.  Sharing my artwork on this website is my way of giving voice to these images and the issues behind them.

Enjoy!

Adria