These new paintings represent my origional contemporary work. This body of work signifies the coalescence of 25 years of painting, in search of a clear artistic vision. On this artistic journey I've explored a variety of influences, techniques and imagery. My early developement as an artist was mainly influenced by the New York School of non-objective painting. My graduate work led me to develop traditional illusionistic techniques, although my imagery was non-traditional. Later, time spent in France generated a great appreciation for Post-Impressionism, the paint surface, brushwork and color usage. This Francophile fascination has been the impetus for a sideline, a body of French-influenced paintings, that I alternately view as either indulgence or homage. Yet, all of these influences synthesized in my new primary work, revealing the desired clarity of focus. The interesting twist is how I've spiraled back around to where I began. The imagery of these new paintings resembles the imagery of my earliest non-objective paintings from 25 years ago. It's exciting to rediscover a youthfully inspired artistic vision that I can express now, with more richness and strength, as an experienced, mature painter.

About me in general, I grew up in the Northeast part of the U.S., not far from New York City; and I still feel a strong connection to that area with regard to the energy of the people. My affinity for mountain wilderness developed during my college years in upstate New York and time spent hiking in the Adirondack Mountains. From there I was drawn to the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, and Montana where I did my graduate work at the University of Montana. Eventually I settled in Portland, Oregon, a great city with easy access to the lush forests of the Cascade Mountains. I'm a big animal lover and I live with a variety of pets, a dog, a cat, a bird and a chinchilla.

My other occupations include that of art educator. Currently, I teach part-time at Portland Community College, and at the Multnomah Art Center in Portland. Additionally, I am sometimes occupied with the production of handpainted clothing. Also, when time permits, I play drums.