2020 marked two major changes in my life. First, I moved from my teensy tiny single room studio into a larger studio space that had room to work and display, but also required a lot of repair to make it usable such as replacing missing fluorescent tubes, installing a sink, and fixing holes in the walls and ratty carpet and paint.

Second, and with perfect timing, the pandemic hit and obliterated my primary source of income as an artist: conventions and local markets.

I've puttered along with sporadic online painting sales and the emergency support funds from local and federal sources, but those pandemic resources were pulled last fall, conventions are still not happening or having pitifully poor turnout, the studio remains in disrepair and I am struggling to make basic ends meet, let alone purchase the tools and supplies I need to keep making art.

The next part is harder to share. This year, my mother has begun the protracted and painful process of freeing herself from my father. This is a man who has abused and terrorized his family in every way possible. The divorce proceedings have not only stripped us of resources, but have forced me to relive and speak to strangers about my own severe physical, emotional and sexual abuse.

To be blunt, lately my mental and emotional reserves are just as drained as my financial ones. Additionally, I have a number of health concerns/injuries that make everything that much more difficult.

Asking for money and help is hard, but a small amount could make major improvements in my safety, living environment and ability to continue in my livelihood.

Basic survival goals:

Art and creative goals:

Thank you for reading and for caring, and know that any small amount is enormously helpful to me.