Hi, I’m Forest. I work with realism, traditional tattoo-inspired art, vintage floral, and folk art. Growing up, art was always a big part of my life. My parents encouraged me early on with books and drawing guides starting when I was seven. I also sang in choirs and learned piano at 10. In 2019, my husband and I started a mural business that has since grown into an art collective with a retail space for local artists. I earned a degree in art therapy to deepen my understanding of art’s therapeutic power.

My inspiration comes from traditional Mexican folk art and vintage imagery. I love how, even when recreating something from the past, the piece takes on a life of its own, reflecting the current time and culture. Some of my favorite works have been tea sets and other functional pieces. This year, my favorite piece has been a folk-style sugar and cream pitcher I painted. It cracked, so now it’s just decoration, but it reminds me of something you’d find in New Mexico.

While I haven’t received awards or been featured, my murals can be found across Colorado in cities like Pueblo, Colorado Springs, and Denver.

Outside of art, I’m a mother, barista, partner, and friend, and I try to bring creativity into everything I do. My family keeps me connected to my artistic side and motivates me to keep creating.