Bess was a maker from early childhood on. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences at NC State University, became a makeup artist for over a decade. She built a career as a self taught artist and now enjoys teaching art workshops for others to enjoy and learn about art.

Her work ranges from large murals highlighting local nature or historically marginalized people to educational coloring pages and making life sized animal-shaped paintings.  

“My aim is to visually tell stories through the art that I paint: whether that means showcasing nature-education amongst a beautiful wildlife scene, highlighting amazing men and women of historically marginalized groups, or leaning into joy with silly whimsical art.

Her work can be seen at several museums and state parks.

Bess lives in southeastern North Carolina with her son, their dog, 2 cats, and a guinea pig, which can often be spotted working alongside of her.