Connections

During physical therapy school, I drew the brachial plexus more times than I can count. At first, it was simply anatomy to memorize—a complex network of nerves that every student learns through repetition. But somewhere along the way, memorization gave way to admiration.

The more I studied it, the more I came to appreciate its remarkable design. The graceful lines, branching pathways, and intricate architecture weren't just scientifically brilliant—they were unexpectedly beautiful. It became one of the first times I truly recognized that the human body is both an extraordinary feat of engineering and a work of art. I even declared, "I'm going to paint this some day!"

That appreciation only grew during my decade as an ICU and pediatric physical therapist. I had the privilege of working alongside children and families facing complex neurological challenges, where I saw firsthand how profoundly this delicate network of nerves influences movement, independence, and everyday life. It deepened my respect not only for the resilience of the human body, but for the resilience of the people learning to navigate life when those connections are altered.

Connections was born from the intersection of those two worlds—science and art. Through bold color and expressive movement, this painting celebrates the elegance of human anatomy, the remarkable design that makes movement possible, and the invisible connections that shape both our bodies and our lives.