Background

The Caribbean, my birthplace, is a vibrant tapestry of colors and emotions that shape its hot-blooded culture. Immersed in this lively atmosphere, I have fused my passion for the human psyche with my surroundings to forge narratives that combine my unique experiences. The essence of my creative process lies in the intricate web of everyday relationships, the spaces they inhabit, and the memories that have shaped my identity.

My journey as an artist began in Puerto Rico, where my artistic inclinations were nurtured by my mother’s creativity and the guidance of my talented Uncle Rigo, a professional artist. Their influence led me to hone my skills in painting and drawing. The realization of my artistic calling came as a fifth grader, when my painting of a rooster won first place in a school competition.

As a teenager, my involvement in remodeling my family home sparked a passion for architecture, prompting me to study it at the University of Puerto Rico. Moving to Atlanta in 1982, I continued my architectural studies at Georgia Tech, while simultaneously building a family and a successful moving business. Despite these commitments, my artistic yearnings remained strong. In 2008, I decided to pursue my artistic calling and enrolled at the Savannah College of Art & Design. At SCAD, I refined my artistic abilities and found my true passion in portraiture and contemporary-realism. This journey culminated in 2011, when I obtained a Master’s in Fine Arts (MFA) degree in painting.

My architectural career has always been a pulsating force in the background, guiding me towards opportunities to remodel homes and design new ones. However, it wasn’t until 2018 that everything fell into place for me to truly pursue my two passions. I made the bold decision to move from Atlanta to Maxeys, a charming small town nestled southeast of Athens, Georgia, and embarked on a new venture with my partner where we opened The Gillen House Bed and Breakfast. This allowed me to blend my love for architecture and hospitality, creating a space that not only showcased my design and creative skills but also provided a cozy and welcoming experience for guests. As time went on, my creativity expanded, and in 2020, I began taking on clients for design projects. Alongside this, I also delved into painting commissions and creating fine artworks, allowing me to express myself as an artist.

Being a mother has taught me the importance of balancing various aspects of life, and as a business person, I have honed my ability to efficiently get things done. As an artist, I constantly strive to capture the essence of my subject’s soul in my work, and as a designer, I consistently aim to merge functionality with elegance and create spaces that exude comfortable aesthetics. I am proud to be a woman, a mother, and a nature lover all of which shape the unique perspective I bring to my architectural career and creative pursuits.