No photos on social medias are safe from becoming one of my paintings. There was a particular photo of an American Ballet Theater dancer that I could not stop sketching and painting as different renditions. She decided to purchase my work, expressing her great affection for the photo and the memories it stirred.

I came to learn the story of this ballerina and her portrait-worthy, pup, Murphy: well-behaved dogs are allowed at ABT and play together until the piano announces its naptime. Murphy was a reason she spent a few more years in the company.

The work now resides with its subjects in New York.

Acrylic on Canvas, 2024