I was born in Germany and grew up in a vibrant ethnic community in Chicago. One of three daughters of Lithuanian refugees, I was immersed in the Lithuanian culture and traditions through language, stories and song. My heritage has left an indelible mark, infusing my art with a respect for all cultures and their contributions to our diverse society.

After receiving a BFA from the Art Institute of Chicago, I went on to work in display arts, designing and painting theater backdrops, illustration, and graphic design. I bring all these skills to my current work. I get joy in painting still life and landscapes, though my true passion is painting people, rendering their emotions, stories, and complex identities into my portraits.

Today I work as an artist in Seattle. With each piece I create, I want to show the joy in our lives, as well as the complexities that we all live with. I capture this through the use of precise drawing, color and composition. Oil paints, colored pencil, graphite, charcoal and mixed media are the materials I use to create my work.