Joita

Growth is always the goal, and I love traveling — this VAWAA was the perfect way to combine both. As a self-taught artist from Buffalo, I wanted to refine my oil painting skills through focused, one-on-one mentorship and immerse myself in a new environment that would challenge how I see and create. My main focus was learning and refining oils, but I also explored embroidery for the first time, opening up creative possibilities I never expected. Although I was skeptical at first, Diana’s depth of experience and generosity made this a pivotal moment in my journey — one that has strengthened my technique, expanded my perspective, and inspired the work I’ll carry into future residencies.