ARTIST STATEMENT
 My paintings explore connections.  Connections to nature, to others, to time as well as disruption in connection.  I like to have a sense of mystery in the image that encourages the viewer to think about what is going on and to question the relationship between the figures and/or the environment.  I have a background in the theater, so the images often have a sense of drama and possible disconcerting atmosphere.  In my figurative work, the audience should wonder what the characters are thinking about. 
 
Gesture and movement are important in my paintings.  I approach painting by thinking about planes of color, layering in linework, and thinking about the auric nature of edges as well as the visual weight across the picture plane.  I often see anthropomorphic moments in nature and try to bring these out in my work.  I draw from the environment that I have experienced and that has a resonance for me, including the mangroves and banyans of Florida and the woods of Maryland.  
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My approach to painting derives from the tradition of Cezanne, with planes of color, like that of Fairfield Porter.  However, I layer in linear work that emphasizes gesture as well as the auric glow around objects to enhance their power, as well as to balance color and weight in the composition.  I am influenced by the intimate moments of artists like Lois Dodd, and drama of artists like Eric Fischl and Leonora Carrington.  
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