Artist Statement

As a plein air painter and lifelong cartoonist, I'm driven to capture the essence of the world around me through watercolor and acrylics. Rooted in Colorado's ever-changing landscapes, my art is a reflection of the things that interest me – the way light dances across a scene, the textures of nature, and the humor in everyday life.

I'm not concerned with precision rendering; instead, I focus on evoking mood and atmosphere in my paintings. I prioritize the emotional resonance of a piece over its literal representation, often opting for evocative over pretty. This approach allows me to tap into the spirit of a place and convey my personal response to the natural world.

My journey as an artist began with cartooning, where I honed my skills in humor and satire. My editorial cartoons have been featured in various publications, including the Boulder Daily Camera, Colorado Springs Independent, and The Maverick Observer. However, the demands of cartooning ultimately led me to seek solace in plein air painting. Standing in the landscape, brush in hand, I engage in a dialogue with nature that's both honest and generous.

Before becoming a full-time artist, I worked as a tilesetter, a profession that taught me the value of texture, pattern, and attention to detail. Though my hands now hold brushes instead of trowels, my experience in the trades continues to influence my artistic approach. Through my art, I aim to see clearly, respond truthfully, and share my vision with humor and heart. Whether I'm painting the worn textures of a mountain town or sketching a wry cartoon about modern life, my goal is to capture the essence of the moment and convey it with authenticity.