I often draw my wife as her favorite animal, the River Otter. So, when I was asked to both curate and paint for the MO River Murals project along Kansas City's river walk path, I saw the perfect opportunity to thank my wife, Alisa, for all her unwavering support over the years. At the same time, it allowed me to highlight one of the animals native to the Missouri River.

The long wall of the mural was an ideal canvas for capturing the otter's playful, fluid movements in the water. I incorporated colorful, sweeping strokes to symbolize her warm heart, spinning joyfully in her playful ways. It was a truly special project for me, as it allowed me to blend something deeply personal with a celebration of the local wildlife that calls the Missouri River home.