Monika realized at an early age that she wanted to create her own aesthetic. Every medium was a new tool that she could utilize to explore her craft. She learned to sew when she was young and soon used these skills to express her style. She graduated from Moore College of Art with a BFA in fashion design. MCA gave her the opportunity to explore many other art forms including painting. It was there that she discovered her love of portraiture. After graduation she pursued her career as a Fashion Designer in Philadelphia and New York City. In 1990 she moved from NYC to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania where she continued to work in the apparel industry on a freelance basis.

 

Monika loves to travel and has been very fortunate to be able to experience the diverse cultures and people of many different countries. These experiences have been one of the greatest influences in her life and work. It has truly enriched her world and changed her perspective. “I believe that the true gift that artists have is not that they have the skill to paint or draw what they see but that they look at the world, see it and Interpret it in a different and unique way.”

 

After taking a break to raise her children Monika was able to once again pursue her love of art and painting. Monika has shown her paintings in gallery exhibitions, and has also won several awards for her work. She also teaches various art classes to adults as well as children.

 

Portraits and genre paintings are where her heart lies. She does not simply capture the subject’s likeness, she bares their soul on canvas, displays their personality and creates a snapshot of an emotion at a particular moment in time. Her portraits are insightful and moving.