Before The Wild Canvas Retreat existed as a destination, it existed as a decision. There was a season that reshaped my life, and I decided I wanted more than simply getting through it. I wanted to create, explore, and build something meaningful to share with others.

I’m a lifelong artist, storyteller, and traveler—the family doodle bug who pursued formal art education later in life. I studied online through the Academy of Art University in San Francisco and have now brought my studies closer to home at Guilford Technical Community College in North Carolina. During this busy retreat season, I’m giving my longer-term degree plans more time while continuing to develop my skills through coursework, observation, and painting side by side with Craig Richards during our retreats.

My journey has carried me from workshops in Spain to experiencing the art Rome offers and painting the coastlines of Puerto Rico. Each place has added another layer to how I see light, beauty, and story—and shaped the experiences I want to create for others.

Bringing these retreats to fruition has taken persistence, long days of planning, and a willingness to keep learning. I care deeply about the details because I understand the time, money, and trust each guest brings. I personally host every retreat so guests feel welcomed, cared for, and inspired, with room for meaningful connections over painting, shared meals, and discovery.

I’ve always believed in encouraging aspiring artists, especially young women, to trust themselves before seeking validation from others. I’m still practicing that belief in my own life, too. The Wild Canvas Retreat is an extension of it: creativity, travel, and connection can truly change a life. I’m living proof, and these retreats are my way of sharing that possibility with others.