Ana Monaghan started painting with oils at age 9 with the Orlando Institute of Art and then briefly at Rollins College, thanks to her mother’s encouragement. She received some art recognition into college years, then choose to deviate and become a volunteer outreach worker, to develop a better heart for creating better art from the core.As a volunteer worker for many years, she produced educational and inspirational programs, often with art projects for children in orphanages and schools. The first several years, outreach efforts were focused within the US, Europe, Caribbean Islands, and areas of South America ~ supported by donations. Due to health concerns in third world, developing countries, Ana eventually moved to the Pacific region and finally to Japan, to recover and continue outreach efforts there. She joined the ranks of salaried workers. In various countries and then over 20 years in Japan, the artist produced Impressionist paintings and assisted companies and individuals with language skills, magazine journalism, and book editing.The Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Art hosts multiple exhibitions throughout each year, and there she was awarded the prize of Superior Excellence for a large painting of a park in full bloom during Cherry Blossom season. Her work has been awarded prizes at several exhibitions. Newspaper, magazine, radio, and television companies conducted interviews. The management at the Grand Hyatt Tokyo commissioned Ana to do paintings for their executive offices and as gifts to outstanding clients. The Japan Times recognized Ana as the Volunteer Worker of the Year in their People section for the nation.While visiting her family in Hawaii, Norwegian Cruise Lines commissioned the artist to create 16 murals and paintings for "The Pride of Hawaii". That cruise liner was renamed "The Norwegian Jade" and was transferred to sail around Mediterranean ports. Ana’s artwork decorates all kinds of structures: Hotels, homes, offices, schools, ships, and clinics. She currently resides in Hawaii while painting, writing, and teaching. The artwork is available. Following is Ana Monaghan's educational background:University of HawaiiAssociate Liberal ArtsPhi Theta Kappa National Honor StudentHonolulu UniversityPrivate accrediting agency for the non-traditional studentHonorary Ph.D. in Communications/Fine ArtWorked and studied in 10 CountriesCareer in Education, Journalism, and Fine Art Languages: English/ Intermediate Japanese and SpanishSummary of book,"Starlight Treasures, Exploring Dreams and Visions as a Source of Inspiration", in English and bilingual translations:Ana's "Starlight Treasures" books explore the profound role dreams play in understanding and solving life's challenges. It reflects on the inspirational nature of dreams, contemplating the significance of some which go beyond the influences of daily experiences. Those also can become more refreshing with daily reading of good quotations and stories.The author candidly shares a childhood, haunted by nightmares, detailing how Christian teachings became a source of solace as they invoked a spiritual defense against the perceived demons. Reflecting on the contributing factors, including some fairly frequent abuse in the home, the narrative unfolds to underscore how Divine intervention can bring peace when dealing with confusing situations. Times of tranquility surface through positive dreams. It was and still is the great experiment!The book provides concise guidance on prayer and connecting with the Divine, drawing from personal experiences. It emphasizes results that have come from sincere (sometimes desperate) seeking. The dream stories underscore the author's realization that inability and asking help from a Higher Power bring answers and peace. (Inability + Seeking Help... bring... Answers + Peace.)This intimate and transformative journey is shared with the intent of encouraging others to embark on their own quest for "Starlight," a metaphorical beacon that illuminates the path through difficulties. Through this narrative, readers are inspired to explore the intersection of dreams, faith, and discovery for a richer understanding of life's travels and triumphs.There is also an Audible, full book narration in English, under the same title.Read more about this authorRead less about this author