Artist Statement

     My artwork explores the relationships and habits of human behavior, and their deep rooted connection to nature. Many of my pieces examine the impact of unhealthy relationships and the habits we form to cope with them. 
     Depictions of plants and animals in my work symbolize are used as visual metaphors to human qualities. I find great comfort and inspiration with nature and animals, where all things have reason and make sense. Healing comes with the understanding that humans are animals; capable of growth and adapting, not limited or defined by our burdens, we are liberated amongst nature.
     My focal medium for expression is painting and drawing, where I’ve refined traditional art skills such as oil painting, watercolor, graphite, charcoal, pen, ink and colored pencil drawing throughout my education. I begin creating art by composing surreal sketches or constructing paper collages of photographs to create a unique reference that suggests a narrative. Composition, symbolism, expressions and dramatic lighting interact to communicate a visual story. The vibrant palettes of my oil paintings juxtapose the dark drama within my graphite drawings. Realistic and abstract art styles blend into surrealist dreamscapes as I guide my viewers through emphasized areas in focus surrounded by mystical abstractions.