Artist Statement

As a contemporary figurative artist, I create paintings that explore culture and identity. Inspired by classical techniques, I use chiaroscuro to give volume and presence to the human form; my subjects are calling to be physically and emotionally seen. A 20-year career of being a professional portrait artist taught me to look further than the topical features to find what makes people unique. I study the inward and outward characteristics of my subject, looking particularly for the subtle, distinctive gestures. With a single light source, I expose a moment of intimacy and vulnerability, revealing the human desire to be understood and accepted. Ambiguous backgrounds represent how our self- concept will fluctuate over time and can be influenced by changing social trends or life experiences. Balanced compositional arrangements represent the idea that it is possible to find internal peace, calm and awareness in a world of uncertainty.  My expressive use of color connects my audience to the beauty and richness of life in the midst of doubts, unrest, fears or change. In my work grounded images of the human form depict strength in vulnerability and how it undeniably connects us as human beings.