When I work at my easel I realize that this act is a form of communication with others (prospective viewers) as well as a dialog with between me and my inner self. I begin a piece by knowing what the subject matter will be, and eagerly wait to see what I am going to reveal about it. Often I think I have a clear direction to take, then find myself making twists and turns that I did not anticipate. I know a piece is done when there is nothing more to say and I am filled with a sense of discovery.
My favorite subjects are nudes and my favorite medium is oil paints. I enjoy mixing the colors, love the texture and even like the way they smell. For other subjects, I work spontaneously and don’t plan details, rarely pre-draw a composition and usually paint on large canvases with a palette knife. Currently I am working on a new body of work that includes “larger than life” food and floral subjects in bold splashy colors.
I have also been drawn to painting whimsical skeletons that bear some resemblance to the “Dia de Los Muertos” celebration. They started out with commissioned works and I continue to create my own ideas calling them “Skeletons Celebrating Life”. For this body of work I use acrylics, because I want crisp lines and would not want to work “Wet in Wet” as I often do with oils.
I would have to say that my style and techniques have been influenced by the impressionists. I particularly like Paul Cezanne. He was absolutely eloquent in his ability to create a painting without strict regard to proportion and perspective while keeping it believable. When someone views my art I don’t want them to analyze the rendering of the composition. I am hopeful that they are sharing my vision, and can find their own personal connection with the piece.
Gallery Representation:
- Feminine Mystique Art Gallery, Tubac AZ
- Gina MW Gallery in Long Beach, CA
- SunDust Art Gallery, Mesa, AZ
On-Line Galleries
- Ugallery
- Xanadu Gallery in Scottsdale, AZ
- Zatista
