I’m intrigued and fascinated by the design, texture and color of plants and animals that I find in nature, so much of which is missed by a passerby. I attempt to extract that energy, the playfulness or striking color and light to create images that I hope will make the passerby pause, if only for a moment and reflect and be reminded of the world they live in and its beauty.
Most times, I start by taking photos of plants and scenery that have inspired and moved me. I am particularly interested in the patterns created by trees, flowers and woodland settings. On some occasions, I start by sketching an idea and then take photos or research images that will support concept. My paintings are done in gouache on watercolor paper. My woodcuts involve carving a block of cherry or shina plywood, printing a one-color black print on mulberry paper and then hand painting with gouache. This technique allows me use a variety of color options for each print and modify the image.