Artist Statement

My work is characterized by expressionist figurative imagery and brushwork, as well as a high key palette, bold composition and strong contrast. The mixed media paintings and drawings are made on a range of surfaces including recycled printing plates, door skin, aluminum flashing, building paper, mat board, canvas and paper. I work large or small scale, with fine artist's materials or recycled materials and house paint, and with classical or contemporary themes.

      My imagery is from real life, dreams, mythology, folklore and religious traditions. I use pattern, symbolism and metaphor to express the humor and pathos essential to the human condition Subjects include my young son, commonplace angels, rural blight, dogs and cats (frequently as symbols for male and female), and food. My art is about the connection between the sacred and the mundane. The basic necessities of life - food, clothing and shelter are always connected, on a deeper level to the primal and the sacred. My mother (who dropped out of art school to become a wife and mother) was an atheist- somewhat druidic influence who taught me from an early age to see the mystical and spiritual qualities in nature.

      I am inspired and influenced by folk and religious art of all kinds. I am especially interested in heroes and saints. In my own life I have found being a single mother to be somewhat of a Hero's Journey. I focus attention on everyday miracles and acts of courage that make the tapestry of our lives so much more endurable and extraordinary.