meet the artist
I grew up in Kalamazoo in a family with a long history of visual art, craft and decoration that informs my work. My childhood was lived in meadows and woods before they were consumed by sprawl and chemicals. These and other sensory rich experiences are the subject for my work.
Formal Education
MFA in Painting and Drawing at the University of New Hampshire
BFA in Painting and K-12 Art teacher State certification from WMU
Currently teaching Art in Kalamazoo, Pre K-12th grade
and as a Teaching Artist for Kalamazoo Education for the Arts.
Biography
When I go walking or visit a place, I take a sketchbook as well as drawing and painting supplies. I work in the moment without a plan, letting myself notice and respond to what is important. I also take photos to record time, place, and light. Later, in the studio I can choose from these sources and still have a sense of the original idea of the experience. I often use subtractive drawing methods with a primary interest in charcoal and scratchboard. The paintings are mostly made with a palette knife in a process of adding and subtracting paint. I have an interest in color, light and design. Each drawing or painting that I make I am trying to capture the sense of a moment.
Process
