about the artist

Hi friends! My name is AJ (she/her), I am a queer artist living in Logan Square. I was born and raised in Tucson, Arizona, but I found my home in Chicago during the 2020 pandemic. I adore Chicago, and I truly feel like I have cultivated an amazing community in this city.

I’m a long-time lover of all forms of art and hobbyism. In 2023, I dove into the art of metalsmithing, which promptly became a huge passion of mine. I now work from my home studio and sell my pieces at artisan markets around the city, and I’m loving this creative journey.

Before I truly dove into my art, I spent my post-graduate years in neurological research, settling into pediatric brain cancer research. In 2024, I decided to take a leap of faith and leave my career to pursue my art and entrepreneurial goals, and it brought you and I together - here. I’m fortunate to have you here to view my work and potentially create something beautiful together.

When I’m not in my studio, you can find me loving on my three cats—Gobi, Mowgli, and Bobby. They are the sweetest little boys you’ll ever meet!!!