Artist Statement

My intention as I begin a painting is to convey a mood and tell a story. A liminal space in which something has already happened or is on the verge of happening. The viewer is there at the right time to witness the in between. The interplay between light and shadow is foundational to my work; both function together to provide the structure in which the overall composition is formed.

I take great inspiration from Los Angeles's vibrant sunlight, smog-tinged sunsets, and nocturnal scenes. After observing everyday life through photos, sketches, and memories I take these to my studio to refine them further.

The junction of both natural and man made subject matter is of particular interest. Empty chairs, backyard swimming pools, suburban houses in tandem with palm trees, cypress trees or landscaped hedges and bushes coalesce together to make a picture of both intrigue and mystery. The objects in my paintings are treated as a stage designer would in that each one helps drive the narrative. Some objects are found at the moment of discovery while others are added in where I need them. The desired result is that through this process I am able to construct a painting that is both visually striking and prompts the viewer to pause and imagine the untold story within.