My name is Sydnie Willey, I am an oil painter born in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, now based in eastern Nebraska. I began working with oils six years ago. I use oil paints to create a visual dialogue between the conscious and subconscious mind. My background in psychology and work in substance rehab and withdrawal has shaped my exploration of mental health, loneliness, and the healing of the human spirit. Through portraiture, I convey feelings of being out of place. My work is heavily influenced by my maternal Czech heritage. I express this through floral patterns and bright colors, inspired by the crochet, quilting, and cooking I saw my mom create when I was growing up. I am also influenced by the natural landscape and farming roots of my dad’s side of my family. I express this through painting the skies, houses, trees, and plants of rural Nebraska.