The Back Story I was born in Hawaii and raised in the USA until I was twelve. My parents divorced, and my Australian mother decided to move us back to her homeland. It was an exciting adventure that left me feeling like a fish out of water as an American kid entering high school. Despite my formal training as a graphic designer and successful ownership of a graphic design studio, I found the greatest artistic fulfilment in investigating the power of painting.  Moving to Australia was a stroke of great fortune in my life. Australia became my new home, and I embraced its unique beauty and charm. The diverse landscapes, from the stunning beaches to the vast outback, captivated my senses and ignited my creativity. Australian influences profoundly shaped my artistic trajectory. It pushed me to embrace change, adapt to new surroundings, and discover the unique perspectives in this world. Through my paintings, I found my artistic identity and the ability to express the beauty and complexity of the environment and life. A sense of resilience from navigating new territories has become an integral part of my artistic process.  I am grateful that the finalist status in art competitions validates my dedication and commitment to practice and encourages me to continue investigating new depths in my artwork. I am excited to see where this artistic voyage leads.