Artist statement


In my work I attempt to represent the experience of the sublime. My subject is often the landscape, as I am moved by its steady glory and renewal. Recently I have harnessed the iconic images of the Yosemite Valley, recognizing the familiarity of these images in allowing the viewer to enter into the work more easily. I employ many layers of thinned oils, enamel and varnish to create physical and visual depth. My brushwork is active and varied, as is my response to the landscape itself. I am interested in abstracting and modifying the image, zooming in to study strata and textural interest; simplifying the image to reduce it to the most basic shapes. The challenge, of course is to raise the level of experience above the banal, into which a view so familiar can be easily relegated. I attempt to present a fresh and dynamic vision through a modern technique combined with a classical reverence.

A study of Half Dome in a rosy palette

A study of Half Dome in a rosy palette


A Day in Yosemite

We drove the 2.5 hours to Yosemite Valley. I have been painting these iconic mountains for the past year, and when I see them in person it is a tender reunion for me. I know their shapes. Inspiring color on the drive and the most spectacular falls I've seen. 

A Day in the City

We drove the 1.5 hours to San Francisco to see the Bonnard show at the Legion of Honor. I had seen some of these in London on my honeymoon, but some I hadn't seen in person. His color is incredible. I see his influence on my work and I want some of those kinds of patterns in my Yosemite paintings.

Rothko in Houston

We traveled to Houston to see a retrospective of Mark Rothko’s work at the Museum of Fine Art.

 

Took in the Rothko Chapel.

 

Saw some old friends: Phillip Guston and Bill DeKooning.

 

And a Cy Twombly Gallery, The Menil Collection. Houston is an art rich city.

The Turner Show at the De Young Museum

Turner’s watercolors are so modern and inspire me greatly.

I also admire James Lavador’s landscapes (far right) and noted the resemblance. Although Mr. Lavador’s work holds it own.

 

Had to drop by to see the Ed Ruscha.