Artist Statement
First of all, I paint because I must.... It is as much a part of me as my hands or eyes. When I am not painting it is like a big part of who I am is missing.
Having been fascinated with people for as long as I can remember, it is not surprising that I'm primarily known as a portrait artist. Within the last few years, I have become aware that I desire to do more than produce a likeness of my subjects. Now, I strive to connect with the person on a deeper level that comes through in the finished painting, showing the distinctive quality of that person's inherent spirit, the essence of them, if you will. It is with renewed excitement and enthusiasm that I continue to do commissioned portraits as well as my figurative work. It is my wish that my work touch the heart of the viewer and gives them a moment's pause. Perhaps they will sense a bit of what I felt about the subject, or better yet, to get in touch with their own feelings about it......
