Statement

Using mark and color, I am interested in finding connection between outward experience and inward reflection. The paintings and drawings begin with a series of marks or color—the beginning of a dialog of sorts. At times through observation, and often from instinct, I make additional formal decisions. It is during the making from which purpose arises. For me, figuration and abstraction are linked and inform one another. There is mystery and surprise within both realms. Drawing gives the most direct conduit to seeing and to searching, and offers insight for painting, though the drawings are independent works. It is during the making of the work that engagement takes varied form, from frustration to exhilaration. Both poles of experience inspire a return to the painting or drawing and from which subjective truth might be approached.

Many factors inform this exploration. There is a personal history, full of experiences, both relatively fleeting and sustained. A single observation or conversation, seeing a body of work by another artist, or hearing a piece of music might trigger a profound response or shift. When this has occurred, I suspect that the impending shift was at the ready, just waiting for a catalyst. 

The impact from some of the more short-lived, yet formidable, occurrences initially is granted greater import, and sometimes for good reason. Yet, those circumstances which occur over the passage of time—whether it be the more gradual shifts of being or the often slow messiness of daily life or working on a difficult painting—have the potential to be just as significant. Extended experience is often less definable because the impact may be more of a slow burn verses a pivotal spark. I try to reflect on the more gradual arcs of experience, as they can be just as revealing. The light, the mark, and color all embody that personal search.

When painting or drawing is going well there begins an irregular rhythm.  I have a stronger grasp of the necessary colors or marks and let elements, which have become less demonstrative, fade or become more muted.  It is difficult to find useful words or phrases to describe this process, as the pursuit is entirely non-verbal and essentially a solitary act.  However, as the painting or drawing develops my focus becomes more intense and the decisions are more specific. 

The necessity I seek in making a painting or drawing echoes a desire to communicate.  I was once told that solitude is a place where one finds oneself and from where one goes toward others.  These paintings and drawings come from a place of solitude and contain intense personal exploration.  Response or inferred meaning is ultimately left to the observer.