Paint is the medium for me to express ideas, experiences, and emotions I value. Though I do not copy nature exactly as it is, I intend for the viewer to experience similar feelings and thoughts that might be experienced in reality. The painting is a focused statement to help one relate to particular aspects of the real world. Optimistic themes or narratives come from a desire to enrich the lives of my viewers. Inspirations from nature and beauty reflect the beauty that I find in God. The peaceful atmosphere which pervades much of my work may be attributed to my personality and quiet lifestyle.
Painting realistically in oils with layers of paint allows me to celebrate characteristics I most enjoy about my subjects. The delicate blend of halftones on a child’s cheek, the soft texture of a bird’s down, or the grain of a stone can best be appreciated through a highly rendered vision. Particular subtle qualities of human character and expression are only realized in a more lifelike description. I do not seek to copy my subject matter in a naturalistic sense. I rearrange, eliminate, and add to details; change color temperatures and values; and adjust compositional arrangements. Though I have painted much work from personal photographic reference, studying directly from life has been beneficial to recognize, preserve, and emphasize my subject’s three-dimensional structures.
I study and practice traditional painting techniques from a desire to do my best work and to gain greater ability to express ideas. Knowing my worth comes from a God-given value, I need not obsess over achieving success or maintaining my image. I have new passion for painting since I properly ordered these priorities. I am less driven to finish the painting quickly and am freer to enjoy the creative process.
Light is fascinating. Though sometimes the main focus of my paintings, light creates a variety of moods and colors for all of my settings. Backlighting and dramatic light effects hold special appeal to me. I enjoy patches of sunlight that seem to explode with energy as well as the subtle areas of color which represent more quiet moods.
My subjects and themes vary. Still life and landscape subjects provide a playground to explore light, color, atmosphere, and composition. Wildlife afford subjects with personality and an immediacy of life similar to that seen in humans. A few of my images represent sounds and emotions that I associate with music. I recreate the mood of a particular piece or style of music by painting the inspired colors and shapes floating around the musicians. I desire that my viewers recognize the reality of God and the spirit world. Seeing an image of Christ alongside subject matter from the natural world can shock a viewer into a heightened awareness. Truth that I relate in my spiritual paintings may encourage viewers to connect with and find comfort in God. The most prominent subject of my portfolio is the human figure. My models thoughts and emotions are as important to me as their physical features. By placing figures in slice-of-life situations or in descriptive environments, I convey the mental and emotional experiences of my subjects.
As I continue to grow as a person in all facets of my life I will continue giving something of value to society through the challenging but meaningful medium of painting.