About Me
Who Is This Woman, Anyway?
Well, basically I’m just someone who’s discovered that what lights me up is helping others see what lights them up — I live to see and celebrate the divine light in each of us.
I’ve been lucky enough to receive commissions for my “possibility portraits” from all over the US, and also to lead discover-your-light workshops such as Collage Your Light, Treasure Mapping, and Play as a Spiritual Path, which participants call “enjoyable and insightful” and “terrific — led with fun and openness.”
My idealistic dream is that this work will help people see not only their own light — their own inner beauty and greatness and shared humanity — but also the light in others, at home, in our communities, and all over the world. If we all saw this consistently there would truly be peace on earth.
Before I began this work three years ago, I was a Cornell Ph.D. and an ethics textbook author, as well as a homeschooling mom and recognized authority on “unschooling.” I never imagined being either an artist or a workshop leader — much less one who helps people remember who they really are.
So what happened?
I had a transformative experience. During a powerful self-discovery course in New York, I went to see an exhibit of Byzantine art.
As I was marveling at an ancient icon, an idea struck me with the force of a revelation:
wouldn’t it be incredible to paint portraits of ordinary people in their holy aspects, icons for the 21st century that show who we truly have the capacity to be?
But — I hadn’t touched a paint brush in over 20 years…
(Like many people, I loved to draw and paint as a child, but decided as a teen that I couldn’t be an artist.
That’s me, age 7, drawing at school in Florence, Italy…)
I was on fire with my idea, however, so I rushed home, bought paints and supplies, and turned our bedroom into an art studio. (Fortunately my husband is a very supportive and flexible guy!)
And as I interviewed my first subject (thanks Sue!) and began painting the first “possibility portrait,” I discovered a delight and purposefulness I’d last remembered as young teen, counseling friends and drawing all over my schoolwork. So this is what I was meant to do! And Inner Vision Portraits was born.
I am so grateful to have found work that is both utterly fun and fulfilling for me, and also makes a unique contribution and lasting difference for others. Who could ask for more?
When I’m not working/playing, I enjoy my teenage daughters and husband (the novelist Brian Hall); dance, and teach Kripalu Danskinetics; and savor the enriching community and beautiful landscapes of Ithaca, NY.
And there’s all the other good stuff, too: friends and family, writing, meditating, gardening, Landmark courses, reading, singing, biking, Kundalini yoga, cooking, playing the cello, “unschooling,” Deep Talks, being silly…
I love to hear from people who share any of my interests.
Please click here to drop me a line.
