background
inspiration
background
I have a Bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Taylor University in Indiana and have studied painting/drawing at Studio Art Centers International in Florence, Italy and at Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York. Additionally, I have a Master's degree in Art Therapy, which has encouraged an integration of emotion and intimacy in my cr
I have a Bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Taylor University in Indiana and have studied painting/drawing at Studio Art Centers International in Florence, Italy and at Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York. Additionally, I have a Master's degree in Art Therapy, which has encouraged an integration of emotion and intimacy in my creative process. My work combines both a process and product approach: I allow the painting process to unfold as I create, but in order for a work to be complete, I have to be satisfied with how the elements of art come together. Working and reworking a piece is a big part of my process.
materials
inspiration
background
My materials play an important role in my creative process. I discovered a love for painting on wood about 10 years ago after I ran out of money for canvas and my father ingeniously created wood panels out of recycled hollow core doors so I could continue painting. I begin my process by drawing with black India ink and/or graphite whic
My materials play an important role in my creative process. I discovered a love for painting on wood about 10 years ago after I ran out of money for canvas and my father ingeniously created wood panels out of recycled hollow core doors so I could continue painting. I begin my process by drawing with black India ink and/or graphite which offer definition, boundaries, and suggestions, setting the stage for the incorporation of acrylic. I then add layers and layers of color in acrylic paint. These drawing and painting materials work well together, allowing me to alternate between drawing and painting in repetitious layers. The most common themes in my work are conflict, beauty, resolution. I find myself constantly telling stories through shape, line, and color; other's and my own.
inspiration
inspiration
inspiration
I have always been drawn to layers in soil, patterns in rock, the visual interaction between natural objects. There is a soothing element in repetition, and an unsettling element in fragmentation; both exist simultaneously in nature. I create abstract landscapes as life metaphors. Life holds many varying elements in tension; conflicti
I have always been drawn to layers in soil, patterns in rock, the visual interaction between natural objects. There is a soothing element in repetition, and an unsettling element in fragmentation; both exist simultaneously in nature. I create abstract landscapes as life metaphors. Life holds many varying elements in tension; conflicting emotions often co-exist. Our reality as human beings is never all-good or all-bad—rather we experience both in chorus. Love and loss, hope and pain are part of daily human existence.
Some of my works incorporate structures. These architectural forms explore urban life, relationships and conversations. All my work is intended to invite consideration and dialogue.