I am delighted to recommend a budding Artist whose work already increases the world of art with rare qualities of grace, mystery, and profundity.

Paula has the skillful virtue of all great artists-that is, Paula has the virtue of abdicating from the infringements of an overbearing 'ego'. Her inspirations surge directly from her soul, unfurling its truth with true passion, unspoiled by the preening logic of misguided efforts to imitate. Her art bears the features of an intrinsic love of beauty, love of passion, and love of the exalted.

The magic of her art comes with the discovery of the 'inner-voice'; as her father, I have witnessed her bloom fully in the exciting world of Opera, the Stage, and now painting. From an early age Paula had the special flamboyance of a youthful artistic spirit, budding yet already seemingly sanctioned by statements of an enthralling 'Muse'. At an early age she was captivating beyond endearment for her demonstrative artistic spirit issued full, as if an adult were performing. Like her Mother she taught herself to read piano-music then would effortlessly move on to scaling piano-pieces with the brio of energetic interpretations. Her Mozart piano sonatas 'sparkle'!

To behold one of Paula's works whether vocal, dramatic, piano or art, one is before a full-bodied elaboration of a human soul in all of its intricate workings. Paula has the fearless courage to take risks and to mine deep into her soul. Paula speaks visually and vocally with the language of poets. One is always transported when immersed in the magic of her art. One always wants to return to be spiritually refreshed! I am proud to announce that she shines brightly in the firmament of 'Artistic-truths'.

-Eugene Arciniega

Born to parents who each had their own unique blends of artistic talents, I guess it seemed only natural that I would be able to express myself artistically as well.

From my mother, whose artistic nature manifested itself musically, I was exposed to orchestral, theatrical, liturgical, vocal, and small ensemble music. From my father, whose artistic muse gave rise to the writing of poetry, the singing of songs, and the creation of colorful, bold abstract paintings, came my confidence to communicate and express myself in paintings.

My first inclinations to express myself artistically came when I auditioned for a lead part in a local, Portland play. I won the audition and had great fun discovering my theatrical and dramatic talent.

Then, inspired by my mother who had decided to learn how to sing operatically, and motivated by the warmth, grace, and dignity of her voice teacher, Dorothy Fischer- Jones, I began to unlock my own potential as a singer. Voice lessons from Dorothy gave me the foundation I needed to be accepted as a voice student at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music in 1998. I was eighteen years old.

For six years I studied voice at the conservatory, earning my Bachelors and then my Masters of music.

Being a student of vocal music wasn't always easy. I struggled at times with teachers whose methods weren't able to help me overcome my vocal limitations. It wasn't until I met Jane Randolph, toward the end of my senior year, that I finally felt supported as a student, emotionally and spiritually.

As my vocal coach, and spiritual advisor, Jane gave me the strength I needed to complete my studies at the conservatory.

The last two years at the conservatory became increasingly difficult. While Jane was helping me undo many of my constricting vocal habits, my boyfriend, and greatest strength and support, Matthew Brooks, encouraged me. Having heard me say that I thought painting would help me vent my frustrations, during the Christmas of my senior year; Matt presented me with my first easel, a set of brushes and seven canvases which he had made by hand. His parents bought me my first set of watercolors. That was the beginning of the flood of paintings which emerged. Painting became my way to release my unexpressed emotions.

What grew from that was unexpected. Friends and family wanted my paintings so, my now husband, Matthew Brooks, encouraged me to have an art show. The restaurant in which I worked as a bartender provided me with the space I needed for my first showing.

The response was surprising, and the support I received from those who attended encouraged me. The owner of a local art gallery approached me with the opportunity to display my art in her downtown San Francisco space. The next show proved to be another unexpected success.

I continue to paint, and have found painting to be a necessary outlet for my artistic muse and a means to discovering, and expressing who I am.

View her showings.