From the moment my parents took me to a Pop Art show at the age of five, I knew in my heart that art was my calling.

Throughout elementary, middle, and high school, I immersed myself in every available art class-ceramics, drawing, lettering, photography-and even took private sculpture lessons.

While I enjoyed sculpting, it was color and design that truly resonated with me. I spent much of my free time in libraries, studying the great masters and learning from the best.

After high school, I was accepted to the California College of the Arts (CCA) in Oakland, where I explored foundational courses in painting, drawing, and sculpture. It was there that I discovered a surprising passion for painting. I was searching for my artistic voice when Marvin Gaye released What's Going On. The album felt like a message from God, inspiring me to express my truth through art. My time at CCA made me stronger and more determined as both an artist and a creator.

Ilater continued my studies at CalArts, where I was accepted into the fine arts program. What I loved most was the diverse range of creative disciplines-film, theater, graphic design, dance, and a remarkable library. While studying there, I met my husband, who is from Iran. Our relationship opened my eyes to a broader worldview and deeply influenced my perspective.

When I left CalArts, I carried with me a solid foundation, a strong will, and an unshakable passion for art.

Throughout my life, I have continued to paint and draw while working as a printer to support and raise my children. I made the conscious decision to prioritize my family over my art career-and I have no regrets. Later, I studied computer design and graphic communications at SBCC and through UCSB extension courses. There, I learned valuable digital tools like Photoshop and Illustrator, which have been instrumental in developing concepts for social media and expanding my artistic projects.