My name is Frances Ruiz. I was born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico and have lived in Fishers, Indiana for almost two decades.  I studied for a Bachelor of Arts in Washington DC and returned to Puerto Rico to study law.  I practiced as a licensed attorney in Puerto Rico for several years until I moved to Indiana in 2004.  I was not entirely satisfied with practicing law, therefore, I got certified as a professional translator and interpreter.  I worked in this field for many years, including interpreting for Hispanic families in the Westfield School District, until 2019. Since childhood, I had always gravitated towards the visual arts, taking elective courses in painting, creating art works in oils for my own leisure.  For approximately 11 years, I have taken private lessons with Jane Roberson, owner of Kaleidoscope of Art Studio, in an open studio environment where I have learned to improve my skills and try numerous art mediums.  When 2020 and the Covid-19 pandemic hit the world, I was asked by friends and family quarantined in different parts of the world to provide them with virtual art lessons on a weekly basis.  I immediately accepted their request. While preparing and teaching the lessons, I learned more about different masters and their techniques. It was through this experience that I fell in love with Matisse’s drawing with scissors technique, collage mediums, specifically working with painted paper.

My collage paintings are closely related to my cultural background and life experiences.  I also focus on my love for nature, dance, and music.

I strongly believe art can heal and provide boundless joy!