Graduating with a BFA and later with my teaching certification, I have worked in a variety of art related jobs including as an art teacher for 1st - 8th grade students. It was while teaching middle school art that my interest in fine art was renewed. As a way to introduce the kids to fine art, I created a temporary art sculpture with the students made possible through a grant award. I have continued to create and have expanded my mediums and subject matter. Currently, my work is in acrylic and gouache on paper, canvas and linen, as well as acrylic and precious metals on found objects.
About
My paintings begin with only a simple idea, and are painted over an extended period of time to allow the image to emerge. There are multiple layers of paint, meaning and symbolism. The use of gold in each painting is a nod to the Japanese art of Kintsugi* and early church icon paintings that were believed to be ‘written’ rather than painted. Each image is connected with a story or verse. Some pieces include words hand printed around the perimeter. The images in my artwork allude to water, wheat, wings, blossoming, restoration, grace and an encounter with the divine. I invite you to enjoy and to explore the depth of the meanings for you.
*Kintsugi – The Japanese Art of repairing broken things with gold. The brokenness is not hidden or glossed over, but rather embraced and highlighted with the belief that it adds strength, value and beauty.