MY JOURNEY WITH NATURE

As a fine artist from Alaska, my work is deeply inspired by the wild beauty that surrounds me. I create abstract paintings infused with a sense of adventure, individuality, and sustainability, brought to life through textured layers and expressive brushstrokes. My outdoor studio allows me to fully immerse myself in the landscape, creating art that reflects the essence of the environment.

A transformative moment in my artistic journey came while painting near a retreating glacier. That experience shifted my practice toward sustainability, leading me to use only foraged materials like natural pigments, plants, soil, and berries. This approach not only honors the richness of natural resources but also calls attention to the urgent impact of climate change.

I’m passionate about sharing these practices with others, hosting creative retreats and workshops that empower artists to create art in harmony with nature. Through my tutorials and retreats, I encourage mindfulness, connection with the land, and the joy of sustainable art.

Ultimately, my goal is to inspire others to appreciate the beauty of the natural world and to consider their role as responsible stewards of the earth through art.

A BIT ABOUT ME

I’m a mother to my sweetie daugher, Estée, wife to my partner in life and business, Carson, and dog mom to our goldendoodle troublemaker, Jossie.

Carson and I own That Feeling Co, a tropical plant shop and coffee house in Anchorage, Alaska. We invite nature’s wild beauty into your space through biophilic design, offering plants for all skill levels, as well as homegoods and gifts from local creators that foster a sense of community. Paired with the comfort of a perfectly crafted coffee, we’ve created a space that feels as warm and welcoming as home.

I also cohost Creating With Nature Art Retreats, where we invite fellow nature lovers to reconnect with their creative hearts, find lasting inspiration, and learn how to create with natural materials. These retreats are hosted in breathtaking locations all over the world, offering a chance to immerse yourself in new landscapes while nurturing your creativity.

I’m an immigrant from Ukraine and speak Russian fluently. My mother, who raised my brother and me as a single parent, instilled in me a love for foraging, creativity, and cooking. She was my biggest influence, and I carry her passion with me in everything I do. Alaska, where I now call home, is my forever muse—it continually inspires my art. I love exploring this incredible state and sharing my favorite places to stay, eat, and enjoy. You can check out my travel guide here.

I’ve always been a creative soul. With a BA in Painting and Graphic Design from the University of Alaska Anchorage, I’ve explored many creative paths—MAC makeup artist, line cook, graphic designer, wedding photographer, and florist—but my heart always returns to my first love: painting.

• A few more things about me:

  • I’m an ENFP, which probably explains all the feelings and endless creativity.

  • I love crime dramas and am always up for rewatching favorites like Law and Order SVU, Criminal Minds, Bones, Dexter, and Mindhunter.

  • I love to listen to the perfect blend of hip-hop and jazz.

  • I live for foraging and painting in nature.

  • Cooking is my happy place.

  • I love the smell of the sea.

  • Berry picking season is hands down my favorite time of year.

  • I’m passionate about herbal medicine, especially while foraging.

  • My husband and I just finished building our first home—it’s our love child. Check it out here.

  • A few years ago, I painted under a receding glacier, and it completely changed my life. Watch the video here.

  • I love collaborating with like-minded creatives and empowering each other to grow.