PAINTING

This work has its source in wilderness. In travels through forests of the Northeast, I observe natural phenomena, which generates ideas for the development of paintings.

These abstractions, using organic forms, convey a sense of the mystery, exuberance and power found
in nature.  My intent is to create a pictorial space which is reminiscent of moving through space in wilderness, where forms are encountered, recede into distance, and lodge in memory. My painting approach mirrors this intent. Natural forms- roots, branches, trees, and vines - are used in a process of pictorial improvisation. The works are built up in layers with superimposed forms that define and divide pictorial space, and underlying passages are obscured or erased. There is an ongoing, deliberate experimentation with mark making, textures, and painting approaches. Paintings are developed intuitively, where forms, passages and lines are placed in response to previous layers.
The resolution of the paintings is dependent on this process.

 In the Glacial Ponds works, my intent is to develop a painting approach specific to each work, dependent on the phenomena and conditions observed in the ponds. The painting technique is a synthesis of the pond’s state at a particular time.

The paintings have been given Native American names, in homage to cultures that possessed an extraordinary insight into the natural world, including our relationship to it.
 

INSTALLATION

I am interested in bringing wilderness into public spaces.  I would like to transform these spaces with
the use of natural materials so that the spaces are visually enhanced, and to promote a dialog between manmade and natural environments. The tension that exists between these two worlds provides a challenging area for artistic activity. The process begins with a consideration of the structural or
natural components of a given space. An idea for an installation is developed that responds to these components and makes a statement about the natural world within a manmade space, or a park setting. My purpose is to create a work that relates closely to the natural environment, and communicates some of my thoughts and feelings about wilderness to people who visit the setting. It is hoped that viewers may contemplate the relationship and conflict between the space they are standing in and what remains
of the natural world.

In travels through forests of the Northeast, I obtain ideas for my work by observing natural phenomena.
I develop installations in natural and manmade spaces using materials that are found in the region. These materials may consist of branches, tree fragments, vines, moss, reeds, stones and other natural objects. The installations vary in size and are usually temporary.
 

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