My name is Janet and I am a self-taught artist in my mid-thirties trying to live my best life, or rather, be the best me, in Hawaii.

Here I am with my artist-mom-hair, this is what I look like on most days :) The artwork behind me is a beautiful original oil painting created by the talented Claudia Wallace. It's one of my favorite paintings that I own.

I love to spend my days hanging out with my boo (husband) and babe (1 year old), surfing, and splashing around some watercolor until it magically turns into a masterpiece (voilà!) (Just kidding, watercolor is truly a challenging medium and a wonderful teacher.)

I grew up in New Jersey (South Jersey represent!), pretty close to the shore. I loved art in elementary and middle school, but didn’t take any art classes in high school so I could pack my schedule with “serious” courses in hopes of being admitted to a prestigious university. I studied finance and international business for my bachelor’s education in New York City, and then urban planning for my master’s education in Boston.

I currently work as an urban planner in Honolulu. In my life I have also worked as an investment banker, international development news writer, Korean restaurant waitress, and English teacher in Spain! This list is probably ranked from least to most fun :) I hope that one day I can make enough from my art to do it full-time. I value every one of my clients/customers/supporters because each of you brings me a little closer to fulfilling my dreams.

When I was 30 years old I was bit by the surf bug. I moved to Hawaii to surf, but maybe surfing isn’t why I am here. In Hawaii, my art practice really blossomed, and one could say, that I blossomed. I also met my husband (a fellow surfer) here. Since I didn't discover my passions until my 30s... well, I guess it makes this decade my best so far! It’s never ever too late to do something that feels right, in your gut and heart. (Does this path have a heart?) Painting and surfing bring me tremendous joy, and both teach me to appreciate and look closer at nature and Earth’s gifts.

Your support means the world to me. Thank you for following along on this journey. Thank you for allowing me to share my gift with you.

This morning was so beautiful – it was a special session. I paddled out in the dark and the stars were shining brilliantly in a clear sky. I took a wave in the dark – with sight diminished, my other senses felt heightened. The sky gradually donned i… — This morning was so beautiful – it was a special session. I paddled out in the dark and the stars were shining brilliantly in a clear sky. I took a wave in the dark – with sight diminished, my other senses felt heightened. The sky gradually donned its regal robe of the colors of first light. A dramatic pink-purple cloud hovered right above the horizon. Waves were clean and frequent. I was surrounded by friends. What a grand morning it was. (November 5, 2020)

Hello! Here’s my story 💕