Experimentation and a love of color, shape, and geometric pattern are the focus of my process. Covering the canvas with many layers and details that encourage the viewer to explore and travel the surface, was the goal in this piece. Empty space be damned!
I paint with acrylics and collage found materials into pieces. I am attracted to the freedom in children's art and seek to capture that spontaneity and joy. The organization of color, pattern, texture, value, space, and shape take precedence over theme or story. Meaning is found in the viewer's interpretation of what he sees. I love pattern and small details, which I use to create rhythm and flow. The many different size elements give the viewer an exciting journey through each piece.
My love of color is often a starting point. Experimentation with different materials creates a dialogue between the painting and me. The ideas come as each piece evolves. I start intuitively and then begin to analyze the canvas to find my next step in the process. The excitement of the emerging composition propels me forward. After the initial addition of color, texture and collage elements may be added for visual interest. In evaluating my progress in each piece, I look for dynamism, changes in size and pattern, rhythm, balance, movement, repetition of points of interest, and finally, harmony.
