""Branching Out"" Painting

I grew up in Connecticut and spent my childhood enjoying the natural beauty of the New England Coast area. I have always loved to paint, draw and take photos. I'm drawn to nature; the color, shapes, textures and ever changing light of the natural world provide me with endless inspiration. I paint primarily with acrylic paint on canvas, paper or wood panel, but also incorporate pencil, marker, pastel, watercolor, gouache and collage paper in my mixed media pieces. In my abstract work, nature is a jumping off point for exploring patterns, colors, texture and movement. I work intuitively, often starting with an automatic drawing, then layering with mark making and pouring paint. I respond to how the paint moves, the shapes interact and the colors harmonize, and from there I develop the composition. Painting is a meditative experience that allows me to be fully present in the moment.