I grew up in New Rochelle NY. My father was an artist and self made advertising executive who had a strong influence on me and my art. My favorite subject in school was always art, therefor after graduation from high school, I chose to attend art school. I began my formal studies at The Philadelphia College of Art (University of the Arts), continued at The New York Phoenix School of Design (since merged with Pratt). I then returned to Philadelphia and received a 4 year Certificate from the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art, PAFA. Through the years I've continued to attend workshops and master classes with renowned artists such as Nelson Shanks, Judith Carducci, Qiang Huang, and Igor Babailov. There is always more to learn.
About
My art is simple contemporary realism, with an impressionistic flair.
I am an oil painter, working from the academic tradition of painting from life. It is for me a way to see deeper, to understand the three dimensional form and the effect that light has on it. I feel the essence of the subject is more evident. It has atmosphere and energy that comes through, therefore, the viewer is compelled to stay and gaze at it for a while.
I focus on contrast in my paintings. It’s exciting and the energy is high. However, over the years I have learned to slow down and take more time to look, before mark making with a brush. I solution orient myself before taking action with brush strokes and by manipulating paint to emphasize only what is necessary.
I seek simple solutions, while painting out doors. I often begin in the field and return to the studio to complete the work. I am familiar with taking commissions to paint what you so desire, and I will engage with you on any ideas and concepts you may have for a painting. My pieces have been helpful and treasured by many.