This series was inspired by my sister Abbey where I painted my first “JOY BURST” piece on her 40th birthday. This series is a vibrant tribute to the celebratory moments that mark our lives, specifically inspired by the heartfelt rituals of birthday celebrations. Each painting captures the intimate and joyful anticipation experienced as we watch a loved one pause to make a wish and blow out their candles—a universal gesture of hope and festivity.

The focal point of each artwork is the moment of the wish itself, encapsulating the love and warmth felt when gathered with friends and family around the glow of candlelight. My use of luminous colors and expressive brushstrokes seeks to evoke the emotional intensity of these instances, highlighting the blend of personal hope and shared happiness.

The paintings aim to immerse viewers in the essence of these celebrations, allowing them to relive the thrill of anticipation and the surge of joy felt when the candles are extinguished—a symbol of dreams set forth into the world. This series celebrates not only the act of wishing but also the collective spirit of love and support that defines such moments, inviting onlookers to reconnect with the joyous emotions of their own cherished memories.

Through this body of work, I strive to convey the magic and affection inherent in these fleeting yet profound instances, crafting a visual narrative that resonates with the universal desire for happiness and the fulfillment of our deepest wishes.