Artist Bio
As a little girl growing up in Richmond, Virginia, I would watch my mother paint for hours. Her passion and talent sparked my own love for art at a young age, and I quickly began learning by her side. I later earned both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), where I studied literature, art, and early childhood education. Being immersed in the creative culture at VCU helped me grow as an artist and connected me with Richmond’s vibrant fine arts community.
Before moving abroad in 2005, I was commissioned to paint several murals throughout the Richmond area. That same year, I relocated to Germany, where I had the incredible opportunity to explore some of the world’s most iconic art and cultural landmarks—including the Louvre, the Sistine Chapel, and the Van Gogh Museum. These experiences deeply influenced my artistic journey and expanded my appreciation for global art history. For over 25 years, I have worked as an elementary school teacher both in the U.S. and overseas, continuing to paint as a passionate hobby and personal outlet. My work draws from a lifetime of travel, education, and rich family heritage. Today, I’m an active member of several local art societies, and a resident artist at Art Works in Richmond, Virginia. I showcase my art locally and internationally. I’ve recently become a certified art therapist and offer therapy activities within my art classes. I enjoy participating in community art events and have been honored with the People’s Choice First place and Second Place awards between 2024 and 2025. I’ve been given the exciting opportunity to present several solo shows which has been a personal milestone for me. I continue to seek challenges in the art world and hold tight to my greatest artistic influence, my late mother, Georgene Cole.