Artist's Statement

Most of my working life has been as a graphic designer, with a brief stint as a freelance illustrator.  For several years I was an Art Director and then a Creative Director for a large game company in Seattle. It was a wonderful experience to work with dozens of talented artists and designers who worked there. Working in that environment I was constantly intrigued and impressed by their talent and skill. The opportunity to work with some of the best illustrators from around the world inspired me to renew my love for drawing and painting. I began to read and study. I discovered plein air painting and now painting has become my passion!

Most of my work is still done in the studio but painting on location is an important part of my work. Painting from life keeps me honest. Of course I work from sketches, imagination, and my own photos too, but working directly from life forces me to really see without the help of technology. My eyes and brain become the only filter for what goes on the canvas. Painting is like having a dialogue with the world and the result is visible evidence of the discussion. Some conversations are more successful than others? or rather some of the translations are more successful than others. Artists are interpreters who share their particular view of the world with anyone who cares to see it ? and anyone willing to look gains a broader perspective, and hopefully some pleasure from the experience.