I am a Pacific Northwestern photographer who was raised in suburban New Jersey. I pursued my higher education mainly in Pennsylvania where I studied the fine arts, illustration and graphic design, For years, I have used elements of collage in my graphic designs, but it seemed that I could never find exactly the right photos I wanted for my pieces. In 2003, I began to take photography classes with collaging in mind. It didn't take long to become addicted to photography. It quickly superseded all my hobbies. As my art forms have developed over the years, I've learned how mutually supporting each field of study has been for me. I use everything I've learned about the fine arts, illustration, and photography in my designs everyday and, when I'm doing photography, what I've learned about the fine arts, illustration and graphic design always comes into play. It's like in nature, where everything is used and nothing is wasted. Though I've lived in the western states now for 34 years, the novelty of living here has never worn off for me. I can never seem to explore enough of it. Currently, I reside in Northern California and have also lived 6 months in Washington, meandered up the Alcan through Canada and spent 5 years in Alaska. My passion for photography stems from my love of nature, mainly wildlife. With each photograph, I strive to capture the intelligence and intensity of that particular animal. When I was going to college, showing an animal looking at the camera was considered to be in poor form. I've always challenged that idea based on the fact that we are a part of nature and it would be perfectly normal for all those wild eyes to be looking at us as we stop to gawk. I like it when people are genuinely moved by a piece. It shows that I have, in fact, succeeded in depicting the animal's intensity and intelligence. And, besides, what could be more moving than having an animal staring at you no matter where you go in the room? I am often seen on the art fair circuit in Crescent City, California and Brookings, Oregon. I've recently added Gold Beach, Oregon to my list on the circuit. My work is also exhibited at The Gallery of Arts & Culture, 175 H Street, Crescent City. I've recently started a photo blog to go along with my gallery on my website. It's there that I put together all my skills in graphic design, photography and writing and combine them with my love of nature to create stories of my adventures out in the field. As I build up my posts, people will be able to find information about the animals, forests, scenery and wild edible plants I find along the way from a photojournalist's point of view.
