Artist Statement

Landscapes hold a special appeal. Living not far from forests and rivers, I’m grateful I can easily be among the beauty of nature. With population growth and urban sprawl, more open space is disappearing. I wonder what beautiful area will disappear next.

For many years, I’ve painted realistically, working to capture a fleeting moment. I’ve enjoyed using watercolor and oil to portray the dappled light and deep shadows of a forest trail, or to depict the translucency of rose petals.

Taking my love of landscapes into a different realm, I now abstract my landscapes and seascapes using fluid acrylic paint and mediums. By spraying water and using various tools, I move poured paint about the canvas to develop textures and watch images evolve from the surface as the paint settles and dries. My concern is to create a dynamic composition that may evoke a memory of a peaceful morning or a glimpse of what the world might look like under the water’s surface. I’m no longer concerned if the painting is an actual place, if it evokes a feeling of place, then I’m achieving my intent.

I love hearing what the viewer sees in the painting. While looking at my painting titled “Winter Fire” a viewer told me that the piece reminded him exactly of a Canadian winter. This surprised me as not only had I never been to the area he was remembering, the painting was done with whites, grays, and cool reds. I had no idea a place like that really existed.

My art speaks through the process of creation. By my many years of painting and training in color and composition I can almost intuitively choose paths for the paint to take. I try not to over control though, so that the painting feels loose and lively. While my work can look similar, I can never recreate a piece exactly the same again. The many variables in paint and process make each piece unique.

It is my wish that my work reminds us that there is still beauty, joy and passion alive in the world.