Artist Statement

What does it mean to know? Other languages express variations of this verb. Using paint and ink, I seek to unravel mysteries about the complexities of relationships. A perception of anyone or anything shifts and expands in time. How can I visually express such complexities? Can I grasp some facet of a personality? Can I explore some fraction of their history? Can I illuminate some essence of their being? Will my two-dimensional media be transformed to express an unseen depth?

In this endeavor I found myself illuminating introspectively: Aren’t you seeing me rather than my subject?
Now I wonder, if I obscure the image, can a memory be expressed, a dream be read, and a symbol be seen and felt more clearly by the viewer?

My current art work explores the concept of Peace. Using texture and color I create paintings that are very calm. The content of these paintings uses symbolism to express the idea of the Peace that I have found in my own relationship with Christ. For example, the deer is used in Scripture as a symbol of joy and delight in God. When we are at Peace with God, we experience joy in Him. I also paint lambs, doves, wings, and fish which all have biblical symbolic relevance. Abstract paintings represent movement through time for me. For me, abstract painting holds the idea of getting lost in a moment, savoring the present moment, and contentment with the time I have been given. My elephant paintings express the experience I have had with these creatures; although powerful, they are so calm and peaceful that I have not felt a sense of fear when encountering them. All of these are reflective of what art is for me. I enjoy the process of getting immersed in the painting process and exploring color and texture while listening to sermons and messages that remind me of the Peace I have in Christ.