My artwork began with experiments in collage, various oil and acrylic painting processes and an interest in creating textures on the surface of the canvas. My main subject matter has been the human form and I have depicted these paintings through the portrait process. With the addition of lighting effects, I have found added interest in natural and artificial light and how these create highlights and interest in color changes and in shadow.
The subject matter of my work centers around members of my family. Through portraits, I attempt to communicate the connection between the subject and the expressiveness of the face, hands, and body position. I enjoy working with expressive lighting – bright light and deep shadows for dramatic effects both indoors and out. I have also attempted to not only depict the subject but to add insight into the subject’s personality through the addition of collage or the manipulation of the canvas background. In some of my work, the collage process involves hand-made paper, photographs, or personal items that have special meaning to the individual or to my relationship with that individual. I have found that I bring more insight into my subjects because I have strong personal connections with the members of my family. I try to not only create a physical likeness but an emotional one as well. |