My passion for art developed while growing up in the Kansas City area. A degree in fine arts along with my travels abroad enhanced my understanding of creative styles and techniques. Throughout my career I have continued to challenge myself by studying under skilled artists as well as working with a variety of subject matter. I draw my inspiration from the simple observations made in everyday life. Both observational and non-representational themes comprise my collection of work, and both formats lend themselves well to my fluid, painterly approach. Exaggerated color and spontaneous brushwork are the signature characteristics of my work.

In the initial stages of painting I use large, saturated brushes. The use of quick, expressive brushwork allows me to capture the immediacy of the moment as well as any light source. I build my painting around a single area of interest and lead the viewer’s eye throughout the canvas. A select palette of color is applied to define form and capture any surface texture. I strive for all artistic elements to work together, therefore conveying a sense of spontaneity, balance and form.

During mid-career I also developed an interest in woodcarving. Walnut, basswood and pinewood are choice materials due to their natural beauty, grain and texture. In contrast to painting, the art of carving requires specialized tools (such as a chisel, gouge and mallet) and is a gradual, subtractive process. My primary focus, while carving, is to retain the vision of the completed three-dimensional form. Throughout the process, additional tools are used to reveal the hidden details unique to each piece. The final outcome is always rewarding when a handcrafted carving is greater in beauty, than the wood itself.

I currently reside in the Kansas City area with my wife and family. My paintings can be viewed in local galleries within the Greater Kansas City area. During my career, a number of juried pieces have been featured in national magazines and calendars as well as on display in Washington, D.C. (through courtesy of the United States Post Office.)