AESTHETIC STATEMENT

As far back as childhood, I have always had a natural inclination and affinity toward all things in nature. Living in the northern forest and lake country of the upper Midwest, I find unlimited inspiration in the ever-changing woodland landscape and the shimmering lakes and streams. Whether making unique and highly textured mixed media assemblages, ethereal, atmospheric oil paintings, or abstract encaustic artworks, the mystery and magic of the cosmos and the natural world always stands centerstage. The colors, textures, patterns, light and shadows of land, sea and sky are the springboard for my creations along with the concept of renewal, rebirth and transformation that is ever present in nature and in the human journey.

In my mixed media work, I collect shed tree bark, fallen broken branches and dead and withered plant materials that I have picked up off the forest floor. Combined with traditional artist materials, I then breathe new life, purpose and meaning into these found woodland objects by creating unique and richly textual artworks. What was once discarded and decaying debris is now renewed and transformed; a process I see as being akin to alchemy and concept of rebirth. I believe that the death and decay of a thing is merely a vehicle for transformation, and it need not indicate finality, but rather signify a metaphysical and metaphorical leap forward into renewal. I see this amazing process play out everywhere in the human journey and in the natural world.

When creating paintings, I observe the natural world, deduce its essence and then retell that essence in a representational or abstract way that I hope will move and inspire the viewer on an emotional, psychological and spiritual level and connect the viewer to a deeper understanding of the mystical in nature.

As we face a serious climate emergency, the need to honor our place in the universe and this glorious planet has never been greater. It is a treasure rich with abundance, awesome beauty, and sacredness. Our greatest responsibility today is to be devoted stewards of the earth, to cherish and care for it now more than ever before. It is my belief that art has the capacity to help us understand that.”