My work revolves around the art of painting. To give you an emotional connection, the brushwork, texture and layering paint are used. My goal is to draw people in, making them believe that what they see is familiar. They will feel more like they've been there the more they look. It is important to feel like they are on a walk, remembering an event, or walking along a pathway. But, most importantly, they need to connect with each piece they pass. Holt Cleaver is a long-time fan of drawing. Holt Cleaver's destiny as an artist was sealed when she won the National Gold Key Scholastic Art Award in her first year of high school. Holt was honored with the National Gold Key Scholastic Art Award. Her work is now on display at the Corcoran Gallery, Washington, D.C. Holt graduated in 2001 from Appalachian State University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with a focus in Graphic Design. Holt decided to move to Los Angeles in order to start a graphic design career. She had hoped to work in Hollywood's big studios, but destiny took her somewhere else. After completing her training at Mission: Renaissance Academy, she was soon appointed the Calabasas Teens and Adult Program director for Woodland Hills Fine Art Studios and Calabasas. In 2003, she enrolled in Umbria's International School of Drawing, Painting, and Sculpture. Dan Gustin and Martha Armstrong were some of her mentors. In 2005, she made the decision to return to North Carolina. She was appointed Gallery Director at Green Rice Gallery in Noda. Holt started to make a name for herself by taking photographs of the stunning scenery around her. Holt's work can be seen in numerous galleries across the Carolinas. Holt also started Holt School of Fine Art, which she opened in 2009. Holt, her husband and their young sons are often found driving taxis.