My name is Allissa Raway and I'm so glad you are here!

I grew up in Apple Valley, Minnesota. My mother, JuliAnne Jonker, was my first inspiration as she started her own art and photography business out of our home when I was five. I learned a lot through 25+ years of observing the work of my extremely talented mother and the techniques she exposed me to through various books and works by the old masters. I think the biggest lesson I learned was how important it is to find balance between structure and technique, and creative flow and inspiration.

When I had an opportunity to spend a significant amount of time at my mother’s studio and home in 2017 she taught me how to watercolor paint. That blossomed into this mixture of watercolor, hand lettering, card making, and alcohol ink paintings that you see on this website. It has also led me toward learning charcoal and cold wax in more recent years (coming soon to the site!).

Much of my work is inspired by nature and celestial spaces. I love spending time in and with nature, observing all the textures, smells, sights, colors. Watching creatures big and small. Finding appreciation in the changes and cycle of birth and death. Basking in the depth and vastness and continually sitting in awe of the fact that it all naturally continues on and on. It is a subject worthy to attempt to capture in any capacity.

I’m looking forward to the years ahead, growing in this passion and learning more about these various forms of art and expression. I hope you enjoy!