My name is Trina Silva. I was lucky enough to learn early on what is truly important in this life. God, family & health are at the top--but not far behind is doing what makes me happy which is the gift of artistic expression. I am happiest when I am creating and sharing a part of me thru some sort of art. Whether it be painting with watercolor, drawing, sewing, quilting, crocheting, digital art, collage or whatever I see that intrigues or challenges me, so I try to do something everyday.

Since I have had no formal training in Art, I could say that I am self-taught. But that isn't all together true. I learned what I do from everyone and everything around me, and if it wasn't near--I searched it out . Books, workshops and an infinite number of online sites-they are all an inspiration they are all responsible for teaching me what I know today and what I continue to learn.

Although I dabble in lots, my favorite is watercolors. I love to paint with vibrant colors and manipulate it to do wonderful things. It is very exciting to me. I paint pictures, notecards and some of my originals are duplicated and made into jewelry and other items.

I started quilting in 2003. I learned from television and went crazy with that! I never thought I would have the patience to sit and quilt, but thank goodness technology has quilting alot easier. My Grandmother would have loved all these modern gagets! I sell my childrens quilts at our local Village Toy Store, each are unique, one of a kind quilts. Some are hand dyed/painted, some are appliqued with original designs. I also make Miniature collage quilts with tiny bits of fabric that are pieced together in a painterly way to make picturesque scenes. These are small tactile pieces of art.

I recently began to paint digitally. It is a whole new world for me. I am actually learning alot about light and shadow and I think it will bring me to a new level with conventional painting. I love the look and behavior of oils and pastels but never liked the mess, but with digital art--I can do it all.

You will see lots of gardens, flowers and bright colored koi in my work. Living in Northern California on the Mendocino Coast it is pretty easy to find inspirational scenes around. I feel very fortunate to live here.

The world is filled with magnificent wonders, be a part of it and be joyful.