Inspiration
Hello and welcome to Noble Dallas! This project is dedicated to my grandmother, who loved Dallas and who showed me what serving others looks like.
I started painting with my grandmother when I was five years old. From that first day in her studio, painting alongside her students, I knew I wanted to be an artist when I grew up.
As an adult, the challenge for me has always been, ‘how do I give back with my gifts?’ As an artist, what do I have to offer that can help another person? I struggled with this for many years and still do. Of course I donate paintings and money to various causes, but taking it to the next level in a meaningful way has stumped me.
I first heard about human trafficking in Dallas nine years ago. Immediately, the wheels started churning on what I could do to help. I had a few great ideas, such as painting survivor's portraits and auctioning them off or creating a painting on stage at my church during a human trafficking educational event and auctioning it off. But I never got these off the ground for one reason or another.
Fast forward to present day and human trafficking has grown into a monster business. Texas ranks #2 in the nation for the most human trafficking. The Dallas human trafficking trade is now a $99 million dollar crime. I am more compelled now than ever to help.
After much thought, prayer, and research, I decided to start with a few small items that I have always enjoyed making. I am drawing on 25+ years as a freelance graphic designer, illustrator, fine art painter, and in the last ten years, a live event painter at weddings.
I’m excited to finally launch this little project and hope you find something that fancies you here! If not, perhaps a one-of-a-kind gift for a friend or family member?? ;) I will be updating this site with new notecards, stationery, fine art prints, handmade jewelry and whatever else I’m inspired to make, along with other makers whos work I love. I’m donating 20% of the proceeds back to New Friends New Life.
If you would like to join me on this journey, I encourage you to find and frequent businesses who are giving back to this cause. You can also visit New Friends New Life for volunteer opportunities, or shop Amazon to donate items for the girls in the program here.
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things.
Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me — put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. ~ Philippians 4:8-9