My work has been built on American Abstract Expressionism of the mid-20th century. I have borrowed painting techniques and fabric designs from 18th century Europe, been influenced by the geometric patterns of traditional African cloth, and affected by the simplicity of Asian art. Today my work is mostly about color and light. As the viewer moves, the paintings change with the changing light.
Observing these paintings is like exploring the texture, color and space of a precious mineral. The paintings delight the eye, inviting a long investigaton of a palette that is at once simple and complex. The quality of light at different times of day and in different seasons heightens the viewing experience. Because we all see and feel light, color and space through our own unique individual and cultural lens, my work is accessible to everyones particular vision and experience.
I use a wide variety of intense, vibrant, and metallic paint, paper and fabric, applied with sponges, rags, towels, squeegees, and brushes, to create mixed media paintings that extend the boundaries of the canvas. Using classic materials while employing abstract techniques, closes the divide between traditional and contemporary, giving my work a dramatic, timeless and frequently three dimentional appearance.
Helen Corning
I had the privilege of taking a number of classes at The Yellow Barn Studio and Gallery in Glen Echo, Maryland with the late Helen Corning. An accomplished artist and teacher, she helped me find my inner voice, to come to the canvas without previous conception, and to paint with abandonment on a large canvas with a limited palette.
Bruce Dorfman
As a student at the Art Students League, I discovered the exceptional work of Bruce Dorfman. He introduced me to assemblage art. In addition to producing his own work, Bruce has a talent for helping each student find his or her own vision. I am indebted to him for exposing me to a wide range of possibilities and, helping me find my own particular vision.
Gustav Klimt
Gustav Klimt, a dramatic Austrian painter of the early 20th century, experimented with abstract painting, symbolism, and gold. Unlike other artists, he was proud to be called a decorative painter.
Robert Rauschenberg
Robert Rauschenberg, an abstract expressionist of the late 20th century, used found objects to create his assemblages. His lesser known gold leaf paintings, grounded on newsprint, have been an inspiration. Rauschenberg happily blended kitsch and fine art.