How One Person Can Change Your Path: Friendship is a Catalyst

Every once in a while, someone steps into your life and leaves an imprint far beyond the moment. For me, one of those people was Lee Kinard, the legendary broadcaster whose encouragement elevated my artwork to thousands across North Carolina. Lee showed me three truths that have guided my career: advocacy—using your voice to lift others into the light; humility—remembering it’s never about self-promotion but about service; and collaboration—embracing how shared creativity can create something timeless. Our friendship became brushstrokes on the same canvas, captured in the pages of NC Behold the Beauty.

I recently sat down with Manning of WFMY to share my recollections of Lee and the contributions he made to my career. 

I invite you to watch this short video—and I hope it inspires you to value the advocates in your own life and to seek out ways to preserve and share beauty with others.

Advocacy Matters – A single voice championing your work can open doors you never imagined.

Humility Elevates Art – True impact comes when we focus on sharing beauty, not simply on self-promotion.

Collaboration Creates Legacy – When creative minds join forces, their combined vision can last for generations.

Friendships like mine with Lee Kinard don’t just happen—they’re nurtured, appreciated, and remembered. As you watch this short video about Lee and I, think about the advocates in your life who have helped you see the world differently. Reach out to thank them. Share their influence with others.

And perhaps most importantly, consider how you can step into that role for someone else—because the beauty we preserve and pass on often begins with a single act of encouragement.