Working mainly from my own photographs, I paint friends in the local music scene. Their beauty, expressions, and unique personalities are the focus of my stylized portraits. I attempt to accurately record my subjects by using non-naturalistic colors in a small range of values. These images contain both abstract and figurative elements, and reveal a combination of far away and close-up views. Each painting is designed to capture a single fleeting moment. I provide precious glances into the lives of those people who help mold and nurture Washington, D.C.’s music community. In addition to my paintings, I use the ancient symbol of the heart to complement my chain maille jewelry designs. I draw on the heart symbol to represent love and spiritual...