My Approach

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I want to create art that evokes a visceral response --  it may be a picture of something you’ve seen before and is now cast in a new light through color, design or context so you do a “double take,” reevaluating your first impression.  Or it may be an image that causes reflection, curiosity, or challenge, encouraging you to pause and really look at it.  Or it may call up memories of past experiences or feelings inviting you to carry the image with you after you leave. 

 

The idea of making art was not on my mind during college or later in pursuing a career.  After retiring from full time work, I enrolled in an art course at the urging of a friend. At first I was reluctant to do so. It involved a several-week commitment but finally I agreed to go. The instructor encouraged us to make some kind of art every day, to ignore the quality of the result, and to enjoy the process. After several frustrating efforts, I was able to produce small pieces that gave me pleasure. I gave these to friends and family. Their enthusiastic response spurred me on.   

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I've found that facing a blank canvas, with just paint and brushes and no limits on what I could do is energizing, challenging and freeing.  I feel excited and curious when starting a new painting.  After I’ve laid down some paint, I examine the design to see what the paint suggests.  The final painting is often the image the paint and canvas led me to.  I listen to the paints and canvas and let them lead me through the process.