Painting and jewelry has always been a big part of my life, both of my parents were artists and goldsmiths and they encouraged me to pursue my creative side. I spent my early 20’s studying art, specifically alla prima figure/portrait painting at a classical atelier in Boulder Colorado. During that time I worked at an art supply store and nerded out over the technical side of art supplies and framing. Eventually I moved back to Wisconsin, trained to be a goldsmith, quickly fell in love with the craft and in 2012 I opened my business Castaway Jewelry Company. I continued my painting studies focusing on plein air & figure/portrait painting at UW Madison and & the Palette & Chisel Art Academy in Chicago. These days I balance my professional life between painting & jewelry; I find great joy in connecting with people through my art. -ARR