My name is Tracie. I care about the intersection of art and people. My art tells a story, makes someone smile, deepens a connection, and marks important events. I received a BFA from Pratt Institute & an MA in Community Art from Maryland Institute College of Art.
I've always loved drawing people. I noticed from an early age how artwork can bring a smile to someone's face, and that giving a heartfelt gift can build a deeper connection between people. This felt very powerful to me. This concept became the core of my artwork.
Over the years, as friends and family got married, had babies, graduated or retired, I would make a portrait for them to commemorate that time and to let them know I was there for them during these times of big transition. I wondered if this type of connection could extend beyond me and my family and friends, so I started People You May Meet.
This is a really special job. I get to read your stories, see your personalities come through in candid photos, hear about your favorite outfits, meaning in your tattoos and how proud you are of your family and friends! Often times I know you are having a baby before the majority of your friends know, or I know that you are proposing before your future fiancé does! Sometimes I know your beloved dog or cat has recently passed away. I know who has mentored you and how someone went above and beyond in helping you through a hard time. I get to hear about what you love most about the people and pets in your life and help you celebrate that.
In drawing your portraits I get to reflect back to you the best parts of life.
What I’m inspired by:
1. Your favorite people and the things that make them, *them*.
Tell me about their quirks, passions and the accomplishments that make them proud.
2. Big life transitions and daily moments of joy.
I want to help you capture a memory and create a new heirloom. I care about commemorating the little moments in your everyday relationships just as much as celebrating rights of passage, unions, big events, beginnings and ends (graduations, weddings and commitments, baby showers, new jobs, retirement…)
3. The connection between people (and pets) who bring out the best in each other.
This can include friends, coworkers, teams, mentors, couples, siblings, parents and families. It can also include the people that make your life better in small ways: your bus driver, mail carrier, hairdresser…
4. Giving the best gifts.
A good gift is personal, memorable, and highlights what you most love about the person you are giving it to.
5. I love the collaborative nature of this work and am excited to read about your ideas.
I want to listen to your story, understand your ideas and hopes for the portrait, and make sure it comes to life in the drawing. And then, when it arrives in your mailbox and you open it up, I want you to smile.
I am excited to hear from you about the people and pets you love and why you love them.