Artist Statement

I've always loved to paint and draw. For many years I was frustrated by my inability to create what I wanted to see. I worked in watercolors and acrylics for many years, and managed to make a few acrylic paintings I liked well enough to hang on the wall. I kept at it, trying new techniques and talking to other artists I knew. I also tried a paint called casein, which is a milk based paint that allows you to re wet and re work it. I had tried oil, but hadn't had any luck. But I decided to try it again, and this time was able to make a painting I liked. I had no idea how to use it, and in reading books came away with the idea that it's up to you to decide how to use the paint, a medium, like linseed oil, and turpentine. I studied more and became comfortable with the process. Also at this time I was exploring subject matter. I started by using photos from books, and then did a series of paintings that were from 1950's magazines. I love graphic art and magazine ads from the past, and was also collecting vintage items. I started taking my own photographs and getting more confident with composition. I was painting a lot of different subject matter- dogs, old family photos, architecture. I decided to focus on small intimate moments from my own life. I started noticing when sunlight hit items in the house in an interesting way and photographing them.

My husband and I like to collect things, mainly vintage styled objects like pitchers, creamers, bowls, cups and saucers. I like photographing these vintage items we have around the house, such as coffee cups, and have branched out to restaurant scenes. I prefer to leave the objects arranged as I come upon them and paint them as I see them. It gives the painting a more casual, spontaneous look. My husband and I travel a lot, so I'm always keeping an eye out for composition, color, and shadow. When working from the photos I don't necessarily want to re create it exactly, but look for ways to add color to represent mood.