Every child is an artist.  The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.  ~Pablo Picasso
   Over the course of my life I have taken that quote above to heart.  I may be a young adult working a full time job as a lab tech and then other times as a full time student of the sciences, but at all times I am still a dedicated, imaginative, and excitable kid. I also retain an endless list of interests. In no particular order I love science and research, artwork in many forms, raising fish, hiking, sitting in the sun, photographing anything that might be useful for painting, but especially looking at reptiles and amphibians.
   My two biggest heroes of the art world were theses ever amazing women that went by Nambroth and Rainwing. Over the last 10 years their work has been a huge inspiration toward my growth as an artist. When I saw their work, I was always amazed! As friends, they have responded to my requests for help with a work in progress and with their advice I grew. Even today, I think of them as my mentors and continue to look up to them.
   My parents and family have been huge supporters. They have generously funded my development as an artist. With out those gift certificates, shopping trips to the art store, and encouragement at every step I would not be here at Herpaintology sharing my work with you all.
   My boyfriend has been my rock! He has been, and always will be my partner in crime...I mean...art! He is my stabilizing force in a whirlwind of creativity. He too has been there for every step of the way of the development of this business. Long before this dream had a name or a direction, he was there with encouragement and ideas. I'm pretty sure he holds the largest collection of my paintings and other artwork, which he proudly shares with everyone. He is one of the most awesome people I know, I'm happy to have him in my life.
   I graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a B.S. in Biology and a minor in Chemistry. I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to take Herpetology while I was there. I studied every species name and labored over their defining details. And even if I wasn't really all that good at naming them or finding them in the field, I can look back and say that it was the best class I took at Eastern. During a field trip I saw my first venomous snake, a pretty mellow copperhead. But in its eyes I knew I was “hooked”. I would forever be in love with reptiles. That day drove me to take a whole new direction for my artwork; and so began the business end of my artwork.
   Today I'm a grad student at Rush University in Chicago, working on a  Masters in Clinical Laboratory Science. Anticipating the struggle ahead, I finally started this business venture I have named Herpaintology. I hope to use this business to help with my college costs. You know food, train tickets, books, food, bus fare, food! Ok I'm sure you get it by now, I don't want to be a starving artist. But, no matter what happens, I am happy have at least tried my hand at my dream to be a professional artist.