Bio, statement
Elk Falls (version 2), Vancouver Island, BC, 27H x 33W inches framed, soft pastels on paper
“Ultimately as a traditional artist most comfortable painting or drawing, my approach toward art emphasizes value in the work process, where means to expression are diverse, and despite the outcome, effort is always worthwhile.”
I grew up in Alberta, Canada and raised 2 sons in Ontario. Before moving to the U.S. in 2002, I had a home-based business working freelance, painted customized wall murals, also did a variety of artwork for Interior Designers. Diverse subjects using different media, done under extreme deadlines, enhanced skills and creativity.
In Texas, while producing an entirely new body of work, The Majesty of Trees was developed; a solo exhibition with accompanying website sharing artwork and photos of every conceivable aspect of trees portrayed in different seasons, settings, and countries. In Oregon since 2011, I’ve been participating regularly in group competitions and exhibitions. Recently, large format soft pastels on paper represent some of the amazing places I’ve traveled to.
Modifying styles is characteristic of my work, mostly dictated by subject matter and the unique challenges presented by each individual piece as it unfolds. There is constant concern for negative spaces being as important as the main objects. No matter what the medium, I’ll remove material to create marks, imply structures, backgrounds and spatial movement, using damp cloth and dry brushes on acrylics paintings or watercolors, pottery tool and fingernails with oil pastels, and different sizes of erasers for work in graphite and soft pastels.
Photography is an ongoing interest, where I’m guided by the experiences and observations, influential as inspiration and reference.
Framed works on paper have white wood frames with crackle finish and plexiglass protection. Regarding orders, art with ‘mats only’ is the most cost-effective, about $400 less. That and framing the work yourself to best suit your space might help your decision to purchase, but I’m happy to ship them framed, of course!
My photography can be viewed here. Also, I created and maintain 3 groups on Flickr, a photography website: One Sweet World, !Phenomenal! , and Green is Green, Who Don’t Like Green?