Artist Statement
My work begins with the small discoveries I encounter when exploring the environment around me, from intense searching to simple acts of chance. These discoveries transpire from trips to antique shops, abandoned buildings, dumpsters, and/or random walks. These natural and man-made objects demonstrate an abandoned and frail beauty that can only come from age. I attempt to capture the layered histories of each object. The imperfections tell unique, untold stories that become evident when examined closely. It takes time and patience to peel back the many layers. In order to capture this, I use mirrors and glass in my compositions. One can look from multiple perspectives and see something new or different each time.
I paint from both life and photographs. Painting from life allows me to become familiar with the finer details and be able to connect more with the object. I can touch, smell and see things that a photograph will never allow me to do. After painting sketches of these objects from life, I utilize photography to capture the subtle details. Photographs allow me to capture an object in time before it decays or changes color and size. I hope to share with viewers an appreciation for these often unnoticed but beautiful objects, before they disappear forever.