Idyllic
Spring, 2023. Graphite & oil on canvas panel, 10x8". Group Exhibition: May 5th - 30th, 2023 with a reception on May 5th, 5-8pm. The Art Spirit Gallery is located at 415 Sherman Avenue, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. For more information, visit their website or call 208.765.6006.
Studies from the Figure
Visions Seen in the Air
Winding Road, 2023. Graphite & oil on wood panel, 24x18". Exhibition: May 16th - July 15th at the Red Cloud Opera House Gallery, National Willa Cather Center, Red Cloud, Nebraska. This invitational group exhibition coincides with the annual literary conference, Complex & Brilliant: Cather at 150. A reception will be held on June 2nd, 4:30pm.
Artist's Statement
As a narrative painter my objective is to present the essential elements of a story: a character or two, a sense of place and time, a moment of connection, tension or reflection. I seek figures, symbols and scenarios that are both personally compelling and socially relevant. With careful measures of clarity and ambiguity, I hope to create imaginative space for viewers to bring their own perspectives and experiences into the tale. One of my supreme joys is hearing stories that arise in response to the paintings.
Thematically I am concerned with traditions, stereotypes and myths that shape identity as well as relationships to home and family, to work, community and place. I explore these with equal interest in the actual and the metaphorical, striving always to combine convincing naturalism with provocative symbolism.
