In a sort of quasi-surrealist style I call “Contemporary Narrative Realism”, my paintings tell stories by blending representational content with stylistic adventurism. Think Dali meets modern Rockwell. My recent work includes tactile and dimensional elements acquired through various life endeavors integrated with the painted canvas. I used to think of my paintings and dimensional works as sort of separate movements, but over time they began to reflect and feed off one another to the point where now most of my work employs multiple media, in multiple ways. Stylistically, the influence of my career as a graphic designer shows up in the composition and intentionality with which I approach content, sometimes borrowing elements of the designer’s craft like typography to help tell a story. My figurative subjects—often children or animals because of their almost complete lack of guile—often appear in magically ethereal environments that allow their metaphysical essence to seep out of their physical presence. Their lives and intrinsic beauty inspire and humble me, constantly reminding me of the synchronicity of all things under heaven with heaven itself.
My art, regardless of medium, seeks to define in the painted image and repurposed object the connection between humanity and divinity, nature and spirit. I want my work and the creative process inherent in it to nurture this—to surprise, delight, challenge, inspire, and generally reflect the work of the Creator in and through me. I’m often surprised to discover unintentional hidden meaning, life lessons, or certain undercurrents reflecting divine presence in my work, and I love to hear others’ unique experiences with it as well. Including yours!
