ARTIST STATEMENT

I started drawing at a very young age. I remember my mother and sister sitting me in my high chair. They would tear brown paper bags in half for me to draw on. Having that freedom at an early age allowed me to grow as a young artist, fueling my creativity.

Now, I work hard to develop paintings that speak to me and others about various topics, such as Art history, American history, civil rights, popular culture, current events, technology, mythology, and music. A few of my artistic inspirations are Charles White, Earnie Barnes, Picasso, Rothko, and Andy Warhol.

My painting ritual is unique. I generally start a new painting by gathering my resource materials from different sources. For example, I might visit the local library to read as much information as possible about a specific subject. I may even cut out photographs or articles from magazines that I've purchased. Sometimes, I may even review microfilm. I recently began incorporating technology into my ritual by taking digital photos with an iPhone or iPad.

Once all my resource materials have been collected, I'll start sketching a rough drawing on paper or canvas. Then, depending on the subject matter, I will choose which medium best suits the painting project. Most often, I enjoy using acrylic paint and mixed media. Sometimes, I might use oil paint to capture a different mood. I try to tell a story with my art. I hope to provide insight into the mental images that inspire me. Ultimately, I want my vision to provoke a dialogue between oneself, friends, family, and colleagues.