About My Smokestack Paintings

In September 2025, Bridgeport's iconic red and white striped smokestack (which was built in 1957) will be demolished. And although it's probably not the most environmentally-friendly or aesthetically pleasing distinguished landmark, it holds sentimental value to lots of people like me who've lived in this area for most of their lives. 

This is why I decided to paint it... Not only to memorialize what my daily commute looked like on 95 at exit 27A, but to depict how I see Bridgeport. How it feels to drive home after work or spending the day with my love. The colors I chose are a reflection of the way I choose to view what most see as ugly or mundane with rose-tinted glasses.

Creating this series for Bridgeport Arts Trail's Exhibition (which will be on Porchfest, 8/23 at City Lights Gallery) is such a rewarding experience! I am enjoying every part of the process. I even had my younger brother drive me all around Bridgeport at golden hour to get the reference photos! I am so grateful to everyone who's encouraged me to take my art to the next level and finally start sharing, displaying, and selling it. This may mean theend for the smokestack, but this is just the beginning for me as an artist.