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Artist Statement
My abstract original works have been repeatedly dubbed "happy art," which makes me happy because that's the emotion I try to evoke in my artwork. I want my collectors to feel good, get a lift, whenever they walk past one of my paintings.
I work on several pieces at once. I enjoy exploring classic abstract compositions such as cruciform and the "Z," and work a lot of texture into my paintings. I am constantly experimenting with various materials to achieve new and different textures in my work. I scrape, blot, stencil, stamp, scratch, gouge and use my fingers a lot. I am inspired by pieces of art I love. If I see a design, texture, shape or color combination that appeals to me, I make a mental note, go back to my studio and see what kind of twist I can give it in my own style. Whenever I go to an art museum or gallery, I leave full of exciting ideas I want to play with. I choose colors that "make my eyes happy"—it's the only way I can describe it. I don't stop working on a painting until it excites me the way I want it to excite the viewer. The most invigorating aspect of creating a painting is setting something down on that blank surface and seeing where it takes me. I paint intuitively and iteratively, making a mark or shape, considering what I've got, making another mark or shape, and so on. I never know what I'll end up with. I continue this process until the painting excites me...and I always know the exact moment to stop. I have always created art. As a child, I made intricate decorated marble-roll "machines" for my cousins. In junior high school I was known for creating "psychedelic" posters (it was 1969!) for my friends, for a dollar a piece. I took art lessons on and off throughout my childhood, and of course my favorite subject in school was always art. I undertook my art career in earnest about 25 years ago. I began with landscape and still life, felt something was missing, tried my hand at abstract art—and I was hooked! It gives me enormous satisfaction to know one of my pieces is bringing someone pleasure. I am extremely grateful for the support of the people who collect my work and the galleries that show it. It's a dream come true to be able to do what you love and have other people connect with it. |
