My Process and What Inspires Me

Exploring Abstract Emotions Through Layers and Geometry

I am an abstract painter, drawn to creating feelings in my work rather than representations of things that are already recognizable. At the most basic level, I love exploring the beautiful ways that geometric shapes can contrast with loose, graceful lines and interesting marks.


The subtle differences I create in my works are achieved by building up multiple layers of acrylic paint on high quality custom made basswood or birch wood panels. I work on wood because I aggressively sand scratch back into my layers of work to reveal what I call ‘the history’ of the painting. This process adds richness and depth to the color and design. Like most abstract artists, I don't have a plan in mind when I begin, rather, I’m constantly responding to what’s happening as I paint, where to bring different colors, lines, and shapes into focus. Some of my choices create loud contrasts and differences that I want viewers to see from a distance, others draw the viewer’s eye to more intimate or quiet details, discovered when my work is viewed up close.

The Influence of Music, Surroundings, and Joy in My Art

Because the idea of “feeling” my work is important to me, my palette is often inspired by the music I’m playing, and although it isn’t necessarily intentional, my surroundings also influence what happens on my boards.

I grew up playing in the foothills of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, and my childhood taught me to look, to pay attention, and to be present. Now I live in Newport Beach, California. My inspiration might come from the way the light hits the sand during sunrise to the ways the leaves cling to the trees just before they sleep for the season.

All of that said, at the core of my work is the absolute pure joy I feel when I’m painting – I hope that’s really what you see and feel when you look at my paintings. I am grateful for every minute I spend in my studio.

Can You Find the Crown?

There's a small, four-pronged crown in every painting I've created.  It's seldom intended as part of the design, rather it's a hidden element that you can find if you search for it.

Back Story: Art historians tell us that the artist Basquiat first started adding his highly recognizable 3-pronged crown in honor of those who most inspired him.  His use of the crown evolved with his art, and toward the end of his short life symbolized royalty, talent, and his fight against oppression. I've adopted Basquiat's use of the crown to honor those that inspired me to turn my life around and make the bold move of painting for a living. Each of the four prongs in my crowns stand for four separate and moments where something significant happened to propel me forward.

What Each Prong Represents: The first prong honors my mom, and the sage advice she gave me in the last moments of her life (I've written about that on my home page). The second honors the support of Drew, the love of my life, my partner of almost 30 years. When I told him what I was considering, he didn't miss a beat, and replied that he was 100% confident that I could accomplish anything I put my mind to. The third is a nod back to Basquiat. I attended  a 2019 exhibit of his work in Paris, where I was quite suddenly overwhelmed by the daring and bravery of his work. That moment was the fuel for a dream - it was when I decided to be brave and daring too.  The forth prong is just for me, because I know that dreams like this don't happen without courage and serious dedication.