The Embrace Painting

Self-taught, I have done extensive commission work, selling pieces to collectors across the country. Although I am interested in themes of romantic love, internal and external struggle, feminism and freedom, there is no “right” story or emotion for any one of my pieces - but each figure seems to bring its own story as it interacts with each individual viewer. Whether I'm working on paper or canvas, the faces of my figures are indicated with a mere slash and the gender is often blurred which helps to create a blank slate, allowing the viewer to bring their own meaning and story to each piece. I work with a variety of materials - twigs, ink, chalk and oil pastel, collage, acrylic. Whatever the medium, I look to use the materials that will add a sense of immediacy and movement to the work. In many cases, even the gender is obscured in hopes that the figures remain universal or a “blank slates.” In this way, the viewer is able to transfer their own feelings and experiences onto the piece. While abstract human forms make up the bulk of what I'm interested in, I also like to explore new ideas and try new things, ergo my more illustration/collage based Cat Noir series. Just as in life, I don't want to limit myself or my work. It's all a grand adventure and I hope my work reflects this frame of mind. My greatest hope is my work makes you think, stirs emotion, or maybe just makes you smile.