Missoula Art Musem
Buck in Velvet, 2021. Graphite & oil on panel, 30x20". MAM' Annual Benefit Art Auction will be held virtually on Saturday, February 5th. An exhibition of auction art work is open at MAM, 335 North Pattee Street in Missoula. The work can also be viewed online. Call 406.728.0447 or info@missoulaartmuseum.org for more information.
When Women Were Birds
Artist of the West
Harvester: Beans , 2021. Graphite & oil on wood panel, 10x8". "Narratives in Oil and Empathy" appears in the Winter issue of Big Sky Journal. I'm honored by Melissa Mylchreest's perspectives on my art, and the generous layout by Geoff Hill. To read the article and see the artworks discussed, please use the "Learn More" link below.
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.
