Much of my work intends to capture the feel of the effects of time and weather --
the stained and varnished rocks of the Grand Canyon, corroded metal, weathered and
peeling paint, eroded hillsides, desert streambeds, 2000 year old Roman walls --
the Japanese call the aesthetic "Wabi-sabi".
Many of the images are inspired by traditional motifs of Tibetan and Zen Buddhism,
as well as Islamic calligraphy; by natural geologic and botanical forms; and by
the canvas itself in the process of developing. Capturing the effect is aided
by the process used to create the work.
I often paint outdoors with the canvas fully exposed to the weather. The weather
conditions during the days it takes to create the painting strongly impact the effect.
The paintings done during the hot Sacramento summers differ greatly from those done
during the foggy and rainy days of February. The primary materials are
water-based latex paint, in various degrees of aging and settling, American River
sand, as well as organic materials from the area.
Each of my paintings are one of a kind and take weeks to develop the characteristic
layers and textures. Some are spontanteous compositions, while many others are commissions
based upon a client's home and surroundings. Commissions are welcomed!