Artist Statement
My artistic work encompasses the many insights and themes created by my life - many doors leading to "otherness" - places, thoughts, perspectives, awareness, times, opportunities, losses, lives, meanings. My early interest in architecture and sculpture complemented and informed my artistic development in later years. My affinity for multi-dimensional spaces coupled with my inability to be confined to a two dimensional surface lead me to embrace - quite literally - thinking more inside rather than outside the box!
In all aspects of life, I have been intrigued by what lies beneath the surface. Often the initial perception does not tell the whole story so in many of my paintings I quite literally explore this relationship of the surface to the interior both literally and metaphorically. Some of my work actually penetrates the picture plane calling upon the viewer to see even more. I believe that art communicates at a subconscious philosophical level. Opening new doors and having the curiosity to seek a deeper understanding is always an exciting and elusive adventure for all who wish to explore.
Having an interest in architecture, (attending the University of Southern California to major in architecture), my artwork reflects a sense of space. Also, with an initial focus on sculpture I approach painting as a three dimensional space. I approach paint like a sculptor uses clay - psycologically building up and molding the surface. When painting a portrait I feel as if I am sculpting the face rather than laying down paint on a flat surface.
Many of my paintings are contemplative, luring the viewer to think and explore. I have chosen to engage the viewer in an interactive experience by physically making the viewers open a door or approach and peer inside something. I am challenging them to look deeper, to question more, and to engage in meaningful dialogue, with cues to stimulate them to explore their own experiences. I wish to create a dynamic through curiosity, making the visual experience encompass even more of the senses and neurons by inviting an active participation on the part of the viewer.
My sculptures step off the canvas into their own space. They are mixed media incorporating wood, clay, metal and many animal parts i.e. horns, antlers, etc. They express the tactile nature of my work and the esthetic quality of natural materials.