I can still remember sitting around my grandmother’s kitchen table as a child, watching my mother, aunt, and cousin draw. My family is full of creative people — whether they identify that way or not. I think we’re all born with the light to create, but the world so often tries to shade it. I was fortunate to have encouragement from teachers, friends, and family that helped keep that light alive.

That said, I’ve always been a pretty awkward, anxious, and introverted person. For a long time, I let fear hold me back from really nurturing my creative potential.

But then I turned 30 - a milestone I admittedly never thought I’d see. Mental illness runs deep in my family and in me. But even with the heaviness, I’ve come to feel grateful (though I know not everyone has to be) for the immense spectrum of emotion I get to experience. Feeling everything so deeply is painful, yes, but also what fuels my art.

As I continue down this path, I’ve made the choice to devote more time, energy, and heart to my creative work. Founding FernLight Studio was the first step. I’m excited — and maybe a little nervous — to see what blossoms next, no matter how slowly at first.