36in x 36in x 2in
Oil on cradled wood panel
Donated to Art for Advocacy Dallas

This painting depicts a woman standing among lush flowers, gazing in quiet admiration at a jeweled beetle perched delicately on her hand. The beetle, painted with gemstone-like detail, reflects my background as a jeweler and symbolizes the idea that even the smallest creatures are as precious as diamonds. This piece was also inspired by a moment with my son when he was three while reading the beautifully illustrated book, IF. One page showed a warthog wearing a crown with the words, “If ugly were pretty.” My son asked, “What is ugly?” —a simple yet profound question that made me reflect on how we define beauty. Through this painting, I hope to capture that pure, unfiltered perspective, encouraging viewers to see the world with the same wonder and appreciation as a child.