Achievements

Chaska River City Days Photography Contest

My “Orion” photo won Best Photo in the Wildlife category at the 2024 Chaska River City Days photography contest in Chaska, MN. I seriously couldn’t have done this without my mentor, Photographer Karine Aigner. She is an immensely talented and knowledgeable photographer who helped me so much during a one-on-one workshop during 2024. And a huge shout out to Orion, who blessed me with his presence not once that day but twice.

International Festival Burnsville Gallery Exhibit

“Orion” was chosen for exhibit at the 2025 IFB Cultural Perspectives “How art speaks to us” gallery exhibit. I have always wanted my art hanging in a gallery. Not only for sale but “on loan” for an exhibit. As I write this, Orion will be on display for two months. I have also been asked back for 2026.

Here to Help Cards

I had the opportunity to collaborate with a really great person. She is a trauma survivor with PTSD who goes non-verbal at times. Because of this, she came up with these amazing adult communication cards, to help partners/kids/friends communicate like adults. The cards express common needs and come with an instruction booklet for those using them. For example “I need help” or “I need food, or my meds, or a nap, etc. There are also everyday ones like “I need to vent, just listen don’t help” and one of my favorites “Tell me I’m done for the day so I can relax”. She liked my art cards and wanted something for her thank you cards incorporating her logo in 2024. Then in 2025, she reached out to me about buying artwork for her newly upcoming Depression Deck, only this time as a paid professional. This was a huge achievement for a small artist such as myself! I spent time carefully curating a collection of 45 photos and a pay proposal. I can’t wait to see the deck when it’s finished. The PTSD Deck has helped me, so I’m excited for more people to be able to get this incredible tool to help them in their lives. I’m watching her goal of having these cards in domestic abuse houses all over the country come to life. I’m super proud to be part of this project.

www.heretohelpcards.com