About Me

Hi! My name is Veronica, and I first picked up a wood burning tool in 2015 and have been hooked ever since.  After spending years working as a marine biologist, science educator, and marine mammal rehabilitator, my artwork reflects my love of the natural world and the beauty I see in the plants, animals, and natural experiences that surround me.  My art is frequently a representation of my fascinations with wildlife, biology, and my Mexican heritage.

Growing up there were two constants in my life: animals and creativity. I’ve always been drawn to making things with my hands and find a sense of peace and purpose when I can get lost in a creative project. But if I wasn’t inside creating, I was outside looking for critters. I grew up with a steady diet of hiking, tidepooling, and seeking out wildlife in their natural habitat. My sense of curiosity and observation have always fed my creativity. To me, they are interwoven, and I love being able to show others how I see the world.

Professionally, I pursued marine biology, and spent 9 years working as a biologist at The Exploratorium, where I got the opportunity to foster my curiosity and hone my science educator skills. I have also spent over 18 years at The Marine Mammal Center, more than half my life. Both of these professions allowed me a front-row seat to animals and phenomena that inspire me endlessly.

In 2025 I took the scariest leap of my life leaving behind marine mammal rehab and diving head first into art. It felt like I had a lifetime of inspiration to catch up on. I loved working with pinnipeds, but I wanted to spend time creating.

Pursuing art full-time has allowed me to explore different facets of my creativity, and I frequently switch between woodburning and linoleum printmaking. Each style is unique and allows me to play with a different color palette to bring an image to life. The animals I come across in my life bring me such joy and inspiration and I hope my art is able to bring that same joy and inspiration to you!