NWWS Open Exhibition at ERA Living

Northwest Watercolor Society Exhibition

The two painting that I entered in this exhibit are part of a series of paintings that celebrate Veterans doing the work of growing the food we eat. This work was funded with a 2025 Self-Directed Art Practice (SAP) grant through the Washington State Arts Commission’s (ArtsWA) Wellness and The Military (WAM) program.  This project included a series of three en plein air trips to Veteran owned or operated farms within the state of Washington to see first-hand how they operate.  Farming is a way for Veterans to find purpose and meaning after separation from the military. Not only does it support local, sustainable food systems, it is a nurturing environment that promotes wellness and healing for both veterans and the land they work. I am honored to paint them and share their stories. I am interested in the relationship between healing and nurturing of the soil, the mind, and the body through organic and sustainable agriculture, especially as it relates to veteran farmers. As an avid food gardener, local sustainable, organic food is incredibly important to me. Inspired by the homesteading movement and the resilience that comes with growing your own food, I want to highlight the nurturing and healing that surrounds these kinds of food systems and communities, especially where they intersect with military Veterans.

Grounds Keepers - A good farm dog is invaluable. They provide security, vermin control, and protection from predators. They are the eyes and ears on a farm, and they work in all weather.

Turning The Soil - Compost generated on-farm is tilled into the ground to fertilize before planting, creating a full-circle regenerative system.