The hidden chapter that shaped my creative career

There are moments in a creative career that quietly shape who you become, and others that stay with you for a lifetime.

One of those defining chapters for me was managing a small, beloved art gallery devoted not only to local artists, but to something deeply nostalgic and universally meaningful: the art of animation.

This wasn't simply a gallery; it was a place where stories lived beyond the screen.

We had the rare privilege of showcasing traditional animation artwork while hosting special events and signings with some of the most iconic voices in animation history. I had the honor of meeting individuals whose performances defined generations: Ilene Woods, the original voice of Disney’s Cinderella (1950); Mary Costa, the voice of Princess Aurora in Sleeping Beauty (1959); and Nancy Cartwright, whose portrayal of Bart Simpson (1989-) continues to shape pop culture.

Being surrounded by these artists also sparked a personal interest in voice-over work. Inspired by their craft, I contribute to select projects from time to time, which is an extension of my passion for storytelling in all its forms.

What stayed with me most wasn’t just their talent, but their generosity. The way they connected with fans, shared personal stories, and reminded everyone that animation is, at its heart, deeply human.

One of my most treasured pieces from that time is an original production cel I acquired from Disney’s The Little Mermaid (1989), signed by Jodi Benson, the voice of Ariel! It represents more than a film; it captures a moment when artistry, storytelling, and innovation converged to reshape animation. The film helped usher in the Disney Renaissance, blending traditional techniques with emerging digital tools to create richer, more immersive worlds. Ariel herself marked a shift in storytelling, a determined, expressive character who helped redefine what a Disney heroine could be.

A memory of the day my husband asked me to marry him on Lake Kittamaqundi.

Managing that gallery deepened my understanding of visual storytelling, curation, and audience experience. I learned how to present art in a way that creates an emotional connection.

...and knowing what great design can be (like great animation), it's not just seen.

It's felt.

That, to me, is pretty cool.