Artist Statement
PAINTINGS
My current figurative and portrait paintings are a progression of my interest in depicting identity. I work the surface of the canvas exploring the ways of creating form through color. My intention is to create powerful images as a direct response to a sitter. I am also interested in abstract qualities that are formed during this process.
PAPUA NEW GUINEA works on paper
From 1983 – 1991 I lived and worked in Papua New Guinea. During that period I made many drawings and portraits of the people there. I began making studies of the people as a way of better understanding the nature of the culture I was living in and how it formed identity. The culminating work of drawings and paintings were exhibited in several exhibitions in the country.
FIBER WORK
Fiber Portraits
In my fiber portraits I use fiber to further my development of portraiture. I am interested
in exploring the surface qualities created by the fibers and utilizing the characteristics of
the fabrics to create a painterly effect. Fibers are torn, cut, fused, woven, manipulated and
sewn into the canvas surface.
Horizon Series
My Horizon Series is an exploration of a sense of place. The series are an expression of
the movement of changing colors around the static line of a horizon. The horizon is from
a memory of place. These mixed media pieces are made using torn fabrics, yarns and
pastels on board. I work with color, using layered fiber to intensify and subdue color.
Pastel on board is used at the edges to extend the colors outwards and fade away at the
edges.
Wrapped Series
This series is concerned with the concept of wrapping as a metaphor for the hidden
aspects of self. I have wrapped socks, canvases and mirrors. I explore color relationships
and work with the characteristics of the fabrics.