Art has always played a major role in my life.  When I was young, I would find myself being stopped in my tracks by my observations in my surroundings, in nature, in people and in my culture.  I genuinely enjoyed and appreciated what I saw.  Growing up, I would watch the ceremonies, hear the music, hear the laughter, see the food, and experience the happiness.  The art that comes from the ceremonies was so stimulating that you can’t help but be swept up in it.  This has brought me self-gratification, acknowledgement of others, notoriety, and a career.  Even to this day, I continue to get stopped in my tracks when I look at art all around me and art beyond my surroundings through the aid of media.  I hope I may inspire others to look beyond your own surroundings.