There are moments as an artist that feel bigger than the work itself—and this was one of them.
I had the honor of participating in a recent event hosted by Cricket’s Hope, an organization doing deeply meaningful work to support children navigating incredibly difficult life circumstances. This particular event was centered around raising funds for an upcoming camp trip—an experience designed to give these kids a sense of freedom, connection, and joy that they don’t always have access to in their daily lives. I’m also incredibly honored to now serve on the board of Cricket’s Hope, deepening my commitment to this mission.
The Inspiration Behind the Piece
The piece I created—and ultimately sold that evening—was inspired by Susan, one of the children in the program. During a workshop, she created a powerful artwork centered around an elephant, symbolizing “chosen family.” Elephants, known for taking in and protecting others, became a metaphor for the kind of love and support these children are building for themselves.
Her work was layered with names—friends, cousins, teachers—people who represent safety, belonging, and care.
It stopped me.
So I translated that emotion into my own visual language—bold, expressive, layered with color and movement—but grounded in her story. Beneath the abstraction lives something very real: heartbreak, resilience, and the human need for connection.
The Moment That Mattered Most
The piece sold.
And even more meaningful—the buyer shared that this was the first original artwork he had ever purchased.
There is something incredibly special about that moment. Not just because a piece found a home, but because it marked the beginning of someone’s journey into collecting art. To know that this piece—rooted in purpose, in story, in impact—is part of that beginning makes it all the more significant.
And the best part:
100% of the proceeds are going directly to support these kids and their camp experience.
Gratitude for the People Behind It
This event was a beautiful reminder that art is not created—or experienced—in isolation.
A heartfelt thank you to Cindy Schneider, who leads Cricket’s Hope with vision, compassion, and relentless dedication to these children. The impact of this organization is tangible, and it shows in every story, every workshop, every moment of connection.
And thank you to Aaron Valencia for opening up the incredible Modesto Silos space. It’s more than a venue—it’s an experience. A place where creativity, community, and purpose come together in a way that feels both elevated and deeply human.
Why This One Stayed With Me
I create because I love it. Because it’s the one place where I can build without evaluation, without pressure.
But every once in a while, a piece reminds me that art can do more.
It can carry someone else’s story.
It can create connection where there wasn’t one before.
It can help fund a moment of joy for a child who truly needs it.
And that’s the kind of work I want to keep making.
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If you’re interested in supporting Cricket’s Hope or learning more about their work, I highly encourage you to explore what they’re doing. It’s powerful, it’s necessary, and it’s changing lives.