Summer Smiles Linocut inspired by a trip to the Riverbanks Zoo

Spending time with my teens is still an adventure—and I’m loving almost every moment of it. This past summer we visited Riverbanks Zoo, where we got to soak in all the incredible animals and wildlife. The twins and their friend took on the ropes course (fearlessly, of course!) while I enjoyed meeting a new friend from Georgia.

I always seem to find inspiration in the little things—the sounds, the patterns, the people. And during lunch, I spotted a cluster of beautiful white daisies that I just had to photograph. Those simple blooms sparked a small oil painting… and eventually this linocut, Summer Smiles.

Linocuts are such a lesson in patience and process. Every piece is hand-cut, hand-inked, and hand-pulled, which means each one carries its own unique personality. The more I work with them, the more I can feel my skills growing—and I’m even taking a class to learn new techniques and strengthen my printmaking practice.

Flowers have a way of brightening even the sunniest day and stirring up the sweetest memories.
What are your favorite flowers?