Hi, I'm Monica (she/her) and I am passionate about both art and wildlife conservation! I grew up in the Okanagan, and began painting with watercolours when I was 9 years old. My favourite subjects to paint have always been animals, and I loved looking though wildlife photography books for inspiration. I moved to Vancouver Island in 2015 where my love for wildlife continued to grow through my degree in environmental studies and geography. Now, as a graduate student, I spend my days studying grizzly bears, whose beauty and curiosity provide much of the inspiration for my artwork.

My art encapsulates the natural world and many beings that are essential for it to thrive. These paintings are inspired by my time in the Great Bear Rainforest, while working on grizzly bear research with the Kitasoo Xai'xais First Nation. Spending time amongst the bears has instilled a deep love and appreciation for these animals. Through my watercolour and acrylic paintings, I can continue to connect with these animals back at home and share the bears’ gentler side with more people. My other artwork captures animals such as wolves, eagles, owls, ravens, marine life, plants, and even pet portraits.