Oil paint is a partner in my artistic process.
I live and work in Berkeley, California.
I create charcoal from unique materials such as money, food, documents and plants. These materials have meanings that I can integrate into a drawing or painting. I have developed methods for applying these unconventional charcoals to surfaces. Sometimes I will use found objects as templates. Often these relate to the meaning of a piece. Most of my charcoal pieces are minimalist and conceptual. Some revolve only around pattern or gesture. The materials become a partner in my artistic process.
Many of my large oil paintings explore patterns. I majored in music and have always been drawn to patterns and variations. Oil painting is my preferred medium because I can make the paint feel expressive and not mechanical. My patterns are largely freehand and evolve as I create them. By remaining flexible with my intentions I can decide which elements of a pattern should move forward.
I also create figurative paintings. These are tethered in the world around us. I build up my paintings with several layers. Many of my marks are ambiguous and contain elements from different layers. This creates a vibration and uncertainty that engages the viewer. I like my figurative paintings to hover between the real and the dream. As such, old photos and movies often provide inspiration. I also paint many landscapes related to travel.
