Artist Statement

   As an artist immersed in the mediums of watercolor, gouache, and oil paint, my creative journey is an unceasing exploration of the world around me. Painting is not just a skill or an artistic pursuit; it is an emotional response to the profound beauty that surrounds us. 

   Painting, for me, transcends mere artistic expression; it is salvation. I have struggled most of my life with anxiety and depression and painting allows me to escape the darkness. I discovered life's vibrancy in the arms of nature - in squinting against the brilliance of the sun, scaling rugged rocks, immersing myself in tranquil lakes and rivers, and treading new trails. I found it in the pursuit of elusive sunsets and the solemn solitude of greeting the rising sun before the world awakens. These experiences are my tether to the living world, a reminder of the fragility and preciousness of existence.

   The act of painting landscapes serves as a sanctuary in my life. It compels me to explore new places, to pause, inhale deeply, and truly observe my surroundings. In these moments, I seek the ideal composition, meticulously investigating the subtle shifts in color brought to life by the dancing of light and shadow. Once I find the perfect spot, I wait for the sun to hit just right and then I take tons of photos to use for reference in my studio if painting on site isn't an option.  

   No matter the chaos that may ensue in my life, the pursuit of the perfect painting is my haven of tranquility. It is the place where my restless mind finds solace, where my racing heart finds rhythm, and where my turbulent soul finds peace. In painting, I find not only a means of artistic expression but a lifeline to sanity, a reminder of the profound beauty that lies within the world and within myself.