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As an artist, I strive to bring joy and whimsy into the lives of those who view my work. My oil paintings, filled with bright, happy, and playful representations of desert wildlife, are intended to evoke a sense of happiness, joy, and even a chuckle. I am particularly drawn to quirky animals, clever birds, and vibrant flowers, rendered in rich, smooth, and buttery pigments that showcase a spectrum of colors from vivid to subtle. Shades of blue frequently find a place on my canvases, enhancing the liveliness of each piece.
The selection of my subjects is driven by their happy dispositions and unique features. By thoroughly researching and sorting through dozens of photographs, I find inspiration that leads to themes, such as the "Talls" series inspired by an emu. This process involves extensive image research, often through photographs, Pinterest, or Google, until I pinpoint the perfect portrayal of long legs, tall ears, and elongated necks.
The beauty and spirit of the Arizona desert consistently draw me back to paint the birds and animals of my state. My paintings are a blend of broad, breathtaking vistas and intricate, intimate details, often playing with light and shadows to create dynamic, engaging art. I am captivated by the rich palette of colors that the desert offers and strive to capture these hues in my works.
Nature and life provide endless inspiration. Whether it’s traveling to new places or simply taking a walk through my neighborhood, I find countless moments that I want to capture and share. The collaboration created when talking with other creatives or participating in workshops further fuels my inspiration, prompting new ideas and partnerships. Photographer friends have played a significant role in expanding my vision by teaching me about perspective, light, and shadow, which I incorporate into my art.
My childhood and family are also deep wells of inspiration—memories of my grandfather’s donkey or the Superstition Mountains where my family prospected have directly influenced my paintings. These personal connections to the Arizona landscape and its stories define much of my work, making it deeply personal and resonant.
My creative process begins with an explosion of spray paint, inks, or acrylics, setting a soft background before I sketch or draw my detailed subjects. Working from the background to the foreground, I let the painting evolve, allowing flexibility for changes as the piece speaks to me. Utilizing both palette knives and paintbrushes, I mix paint directly on the canvas to achieve unique effects.
Having learned classical techniques in art school, I incorporate humor and intricate details to make my work stand out. The wisdom shared by fellow artists, gained through experience and continuous experimentation, is invaluable to me. My annual goal to attend workshops keeps my skills sharp and my techniques fresh. Embracing trial and error and "happy accidents" are integral parts of my artistic journey.
In essence, my art is a celebration of the joy found in everyday moments and the beauty of the natural world, particularly that of Arizona. Through my whimsical paintings, I aim to share that joy and beauty with others.