When I was young, my aunts supported my love for art by hyping me up every time I brought them one of my drawings. That encouragement stayed with me. The joy and validation I felt from them made me want to keep going, to keep improving because I never wanted that feeling to fade. In many ways, that’s what led me to become the artist I am today.
I don’t know if Pookie will grow up to be an artist, and I don’t place that expectation on her. Whatever her heart calls her to be, I’ll support it fully. But I do see that little spark she has for art right now, and I want her to feel, in every possible way, that we believe in her.
I got her first little drawing tattooed. And now adding this to our studio. What might look simple to others carries so much meaning for me. It’s more than just a piece of art…it’s a reflection of our family, of love, and of legacy.
I call this piece “Euphoria.”
It’s the feeling I had when I first found out Mo was pregnant with her.
The feeling I felt the moment I first held her.
And the same feeling I still get every day, being surrounded by my little family. #taetaeeuphoria
Growing up, encouragement from family can profoundly shape our creative journeys. For me, the support my aunts showed when celebrating my early drawings inspired confidence and the desire to pursue art seriously. This personal experience fuels why I cherish the little artistic spark I see in my daughter, Pookie, today. Parents often wonder how best to nurture their child's creativity without imposing specific expectations. I believe that genuine encouragement, no matter the child's future path, helps build self-esteem and passion. That’s why I chose to immortalize Pookie’s very first drawing as a tattoo and proudly exhibit it in our studio. It serves as a constant reminder that the seeds of creativity should be nurtured with love and belief. This artistic tribute, which I call "Euphoria," captures the joy and emotional high I experienced when I found out about Pookie’s arrival and holding her for the first time. Those feelings remain a daily source of inspiration in our family life and work environment. By integrating her drawing into the professional space, it reinforces how family and creative expression enrich each other. Displaying children’s art not only honors their early creativity but also builds their confidence and sense of belonging. Whether your child grows up to be a professional artist or pursues other dreams, celebrating their unique expressions can leave a lasting positive impact. The legacy of encouragement, much like I received from my aunts, continues to inspire the next generation, reminding us all that art is more than just visuals—it’s a language of love and support that binds families together across time.