I feel most truly and enthusiastically alive when I am engaged in learning. This comes in many forms: reading, gardening, cooking, creating art and perhaps most of all travelling.

     When preparing to travel, I read about the history, food, language and culture of the place I am going. I try to experience as much of the place as I can while I am there. I also draw and take reference photos, I make lists of the birds, animals and plants I encounter. I use all of these when I return to my studio to create narrative paintings inspired by my experience.

     The stylized figure in my work represents humanity. Rather than dominating the landscape, the figure is integrated seamlessly into the landscape, suggesting that humans are a part of nature rather than separate from it. The single prominent eye watches the wildlife with a sense of wonder or quiet contemplation, suggesting a shared vision or a deep spiritual connection between humanity and the animal kingdom.

     The carved ripples and grooved textures throughout the background mimic water current lines or energetic vibrations, giving the entire natural setting a living, breathing pulse.