As an artist, I have always been drawn to portraiture—both in the viewing and the creating of an image. Countless self-portraits, brief sittings with friends, and quick sketches of unaware strangers have all fueled my desire to produce a more focused and deliberate portrait series.

I am currently developing an ongoing body of portraiture work. The subjects of these portraits are individuals who are close to me and with whom I have a strong relationship. For me, this creates a powerful connection to my work. I am able to invest myself emotionally in creating more than just a portrait, but also in capturing his or her character. I enjoy finding the individuality of each person, whether it is subtle or obvious. It is a challenge both technically and conceptually.

The geometric shapes that are layered with (most of) the portraits are an exploration of the relationship between the figurative and the abstract. Flat, semi-transparent shapes are carefully considered and intentionally placed; they complement the figure and speak for themselves at the same time. Responding both aesthetically and emotionally to the portrait itself, a compelling interplay is created between realism and abstraction. Although the two are often thought to be mutually exclusive, I am finding that one can influence the other in great ways, and that when joined together they can create a powerful dialogue between image and symbol.

In addition to this series, I am constantly experimenting with techniques and media outside of oil painting. I am a maker at heart and my desire to create and design comes through in almost everything I do.