Artist Statement

I paint to feel alive. Painting gives me a way to explore my creative process, observe and analyze the visual world with sensitivity, and express concept and feelings. I focus on personal ideas and emotions. For me, painting is a kind of meditation that is both relaxing and stimulating.

My images have varied levels of connectivity to realism. Some of my paintings are realistic, such as a landscape or still life. Other paintings are inspired by nature, but my painting process moves in a different, more abstract direction. I look at the contrast in values, from dark to light and how the colors interact. My totally abstract paintings portray the character or essence of the subject but show little or no resemblance to its actual appearance. The painting itself becomes the subject matter. I explore connection and separation, similarity and difference, image and self. I don’t limit myself to a single medium or style. I am inspired by the beauty of nature, the power of color, and the stimulation of music.

In my art-making process, I organize my work using the Elements of Art and the Principles of Design. I start with contrast of value, intense color and movement. The way that colors contrast with and relate to each other, creates visual impact. I trust my intuition. The meaning I get from my paintings may well differ from that of the viewer. I want you to interpret my work through your own lenses and experiences. Perhaps contemplating my paintings will lead your mind to a creative place where you can follow your ideas to new places. Enjoy!