The unceasing bottom-left, top-right rhythm of needlepoint brings order to my brain. I identify with people who have stitched through the births and deaths of their lives and I feel connected to a larger purpose through my work. My subjects are paradoxical to the quiet, methodical way of stitching as they are plucky, fearless, enduring individuals who have lived life out loud. My freehand process of needlepointing portraits facilitates communion with these brilliant citizens. So much is conveyed through the lyrics of a song, the cadence of a poem, the thickness of the paint and the expression in the eyes. My artistic practice celebrates their achievements.