16 Candles Painting

The first time I ever sold my artwork to the public was at age 9. My father took me down to Venice Beach, where on the boardwalk many struggling artists sell their work. He helped me set up a little table to exhibit abstract pieces along with a few new gun paintings I had created. Right away it was obvious, the gun pieces were catching people’s attention. Adults were commending the 9 year old version of myself for the message my pieces were invoking. I remember feeling excited that complete strangers were interested in my artwork, not just a friend of my family. It was an amazing day I’ll never forget. Growing up in a time where shocking violence has become a regular occurrence, I’ve been moved to create artwork that starts a conversation hopefully leading to change. My art objects to a world in which children are insecure, or don’t feel secure, horrendous violence is on the rise, and people, especially the youth, also suffer from more mental and emotional health problems than ever. I am not against owning a firearm or preserving our freedoms. My statement began from the Sandy Hook tragedy 10 years ago and is sadly even more relevant today. Since that first day selling in Venice on the Boardwalk, I’ve sold well over 120 pieces of art and my prices have risen. I’ve made commissions and had shows all over the U.S. and Canada, Monaco, Columbia and Switzerland where I was represented at just 16. I’ve been interviewed many times. They are all posted to my “Videos” page on my website. And now, I sell indoors with an actual roof, air conditioning and….a bathroom! I’m grateful for all your support that got me here.