Every place we pass through leaves us with something— not just in photographs or memories, but in the way we learn to see the world and ourselves. I’ve spent a lot of time comparing places, moments, even versions of life, wondering if somewhere else might be better, brighter, more beautiful. I still do, sometimes.

But through painting and photography, I’ve learned that each place carries its own kind of magic. Nothing needs to compete. Nothing needs to be compared.

I approach places as invitations now— to be viewed through new lenses. Even if a thousand people have stood in the same spot, no one sees it quite the same. What we notice is shaped by what we carry within us.

My work lives in that space.