I always enjoyed drawing but did not do much with color until moving to Las Vegas several years ago. Suddenly I was surrounded by colorful sunsets, mountains and canyons. As I explored nature in all its colors so different from where I grew up, then returned to a home with white walls, I found myself completely inspired. I began filling my own walls with what I find beautiful. Once I started, the ideas were flowing, and I found myself painting all sorts of things! I enjoy working in many styles. Modern impressionism is what I enjoy the most, and abstract art is also a great outlet for my energy. I feel most proud of my realistic works, however, since they require hard work. I make use of an exaggerated perspective in many of my paintings, especially on cars and landscape scenes. I work with high quality materials and enjoy using bright colors. I am always expanding my portfolio and trying new things. Acrylics are my favorite medium for now. I hope to always keep learning!

See more of Mandy's work at : www.artbymandyjoy.com

To enter the ENDANGERED Art & Photography Contest go to http://www.juriedartservices.com/index.php…

All entry donations go directly to the Center for Great Apes.