Dorathina Herrero, mother of five boys and local artist, recently presented “Adoration”, her first solo-exhibit.

The exhibit ran through the month of August at the CAHA building. It featured her illustrations, paintings and handmade dolls, which follow themes of family, childhood and the importance of play.

“[My inspiration] constantly changes but lately it has been my childhood. I think I’ve always been obsessed, or maybe [it started] when I realized how important my kid’s childhoods are.”

Herrero often includes her sons while making her pieces and loves to foster their creativity.

According to Herrero, she did not always let her sons in her studio. After reading about a fellow mother and artist who welcomed her child in her creative space, Herrero decided to follow her lead.

“I realized I had things for them to color on. As simple as it seems, I didn’t realize that’s all I needed to do,” said Herrero.

With a full-time position as a library tech and self-employment as a local creative, Herrero finds that both positions compliment her biggest passion – living on an island with her family and friends.