British VOGUE

It still feels surreal to say this: my art has been published in British VOGUE! Let me repeat that—British f’ing VOGUE! This is my first-ever publication, and I’m honestly still pinching myself. I’ve never had an art showcase or gallery feature before. I’ve always painted simply because I love it. To be recognized by the institution in the world of art and fashion? It doesn’t feel real.

When I first saw the email from VOGUE in my inbox, I immediately assumed it was spam. Can you blame me? It’s not every day you see a message from Condé Nast! But after some double (and triple) checking, I realized it was real. British VOGUE asked me to be part of their VOGUE Gallery for December, January, and February. That’s right—three months, baby!

I was overwhelmed, elated, and hadn’t even had my first coffee of the day. I screamed for my husband, Isi, to come into the room, and of course, my answer was a resounding YES!

Then came the hard part: deciding which pieces to showcase. I adore every single one of my paintings (possibly to an unhealthy degree), so choosing not just one but three felt impossible. Ultimately, my gut led me to my Purple Iris.

This piece feels special to me. It marked a turning point in my journey—a moment where I felt like I had leveled up as an artist. It’s also a subtle nod to Van Gogh’s iconic Purple Irises, one of my favorite works at The Getty. She felt perfect for this milestone.

Turning 30 this December feels like a full-circle moment. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine it would come with a spot in VOGUE. To have my art showcased in British VOGUE the same month I step into a new decade is an accomplishment I didn’t even know I needed.

When I started painting with watercolors in mid-2021, I couldn’t have foreseen this journey. It’s been one of growth, determination, and constant learning, and I’m so grateful for every opportunity and all the support that has brought me here.

To everyone who believes in my art: thank you. Your encouragement means more to me than words can ever express. Here’s to celebrating milestones—both the ones we plan and the ones that surprise us.

Thank you, British VOGUE, for this incredible honor.