I am an Irish American and I live in Washington Heights, mostly comprised of people of color. My part of the neighborhood is largely Dominican. I am grateful to live here in this lively, spirited, and generous community. I live on Broadway— it is always filled with dancing, music, lively conversation, and, yes, lots of sirens.

This community is always rising for life filled with purpose and joy. I feel that as an artist, I am also rising, growing as a painter and printmaker as the years go by. I am influenced by the big tree in front of my apartment windows and the beautiful architecture. Mostly though, it is the residents and small businesses that fill me with hope and the kind of happiness that infuses my paintings.

When I work, I am in a meditative state, concerned only with colors and materials, letting the art emerge at will. I am an older artist and am honored to be addressed as Mami wherever I go in the neighborhood. This is an amazing place to live and create art.