Q: When did you start painting?
RO: I started in third grade. In eighth grade, that's when I started to really get into it (and) understand the concept behind painting. I just understood that whatever I set my mind to, I could do.
Q: What do you love about art?
RO: The experience, the processes. It’s getting to connect with a piece, and convey something. That’s what really touches me, and to have people look at (a piece) and try to interpret it or try to apply it to their own lives.
Q: Do you have any favorite artists?
RO: Frida Kahlo. I think she is really who got me into wanting to convey my emotions; her story is so tragic, and the fact that she used that to go out and express herself through painting, I felt like I could connect with that.
Q. What about Long Branch inspires you?
RO: The beach. When I was learning about poetry, I just wanted to connect (my experiences) with something that felt meaningful to me. The beach and art played a part in that. I get a lot of comfort from going on walks, and just nature.