AESTHETIC STATEMENT

As far back as childhood, I have 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 and atmospheric oil paintings, abstract encaustic artworks, or three dimensional forms, the mystery and magic of the cosmos and the natural world always stands centerstage. The colors, textures, patterns, shapes, light and shadows of land, sea and sky are the springboard for my creations coupled with 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 or withered plant materials, as well as moss, lichen, shells, stones and other natural forest elements 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 akin to alchemy and the 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 playing out everywhere in the natural world and in the human experience.

In my oil and encaustic paintings, I deeply 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 will 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 on this glorious planet has never been greater. It is a treasure rich with abundant, awesome beauty, and sacredness. Our greatest responsibility today is to be devoted stewards of the earth, to cherish and care for it. It is also my belief that the arts have the capacity to help us understand, embrace and accomplish that goal.”