ABOUT

About me


Fox and Tree

The link between nature and wildlife, in this sense, is Jungian. My Mind’s Eye paintings originate from a symbol either from nature or manmade, such as boats whose meaning in my work is that of carrying souls or of a journey. Usually there is a horizon line that grounds the work, from there I allow meanings, symbols, and folk tales to mingle and grow.

I do often paint the same symbol numerous times, letting loose emotions, thoughts, and feelings. When a painting flows, it feels effortless and fun. When I struggle with a painting, I set it aside and let it sit. When I do return to it, I often paint over the canvas, knowing the ghost of what didn’t work is relevant to me ability to turn it around. Painting, like therapy, requires both the will to work through difficulties and the fortitude to know when to let things sit.

My paintings may appear to be surreal, like drifting memories, but they are actually based on my current day-to-day life. Right now, transition is taking centerstage. This chapter of my life and the work I am creating reflects a sense of making intentional choices along my path.

From my studio, I only see nature. This is where I tap into my authentic self; where I hit refresh and come home to my center. At my core, I believe in kindness and that there is a powerful connection among people who care for others on a soul-level. As a therapist, I see what’s going on inside a person. My art, in turn, is the reflection of what going on inside me.

Recently, while running the trails near my home in the foothills of Colorado, a fox crossed my path. The next day, it happened again. Then again. Because I run alone to clear my head and work through ideas for paintings, I considered that first sighting fortuitous. The reoccurrences, however, soon felt like an omen.

Being in nature is vital for my work as an artist and as a therapist. Nature demands that I pay attention—you could trip over a root or run into a moose out here. My hyper focus while running or hiking is rewarded by a renewed sense of the vibrancy of life; I feel both grounded and free. So, of course, the wildlife I see along the trail frequently figures into my paintings.

Back in my studio, my head filled with ideas, I will research the animals I saw to learn anything I can about cultural lore and symbology. A fox, for example, in European and E. Asian culture is associated with cunning and intelligence, carrying magic powers and symbolizing transformation. Ravens, which seem to call to me every time I leave my mountain home typically symbolize prophecy, insight, transformation and intelligence.