Creating works of art has always been a part of my life. Whenever I’ve needed solace from a bad day or extra gratification after a great day, I retreat to my room to create art. The work that I create is meant to imitate the life that I lead: the people, places and things that matter the most to me. In transporting these images into a work of art, I hope that I can bring some of the love and warmth they bring to me to the people who look at them. I have felt very blessed in my life and I want to help other people to feel that way too.
Setting out on a project usually begins spontaneously. I pass something in my home in a specific light; I catch a great moment between family members with my camera; or maybe I see something outside that fills me with awe. Once the subject is decided upon, I begin with a tonal painting directly on the canvas. This helps me to work out my composition and create a strong sense of the lighting. I proceed directly over this composition with full color, working the whole painting in a series of layers moving from darker hues to the lightest and brightest areas. My goal is to create an intimate setting for the viewer, as if they are a part of the scene or quietly admiring the simple still life objects of the painting.
All of the works aim to achieve this sense of intimacy. My life is simple. The things I love most are simple and comfortable and often overlooked. Recreating a personal moment between family members or simply bringing attention to a small unassuming tool or memento gives me great joy. Everyone interacts with these things in their own, everyday lives. Beauty is a part of everyday life. Helping people to see that beauty in the everyday is my way of feeling like a positive contributor to a sometimes negative world.
