About
I began painting watercolors in 1993 while residing in Vancouver, Washington. At the same time I began a career in mechanical engineering (coincidentally a happy synergy). While studying under Ann Amies and Carole Frumenti, well-known local artists, I developed a taste for tonal and conceptual art. During this period I displayed my work in various retail venues while also focusing on commissions including portraits and works for luxury homes. One of these commissions was awarded 2nd place at a popular, local art fair.
A move to Seattle, Washington opened up opportunities to display my work at the Parklane Gallery in Kirkland. In 1999 I was juried into the gallery, a well-known co-op located in the east side art district. This was a rewarding experience as it allowed me to exhibit my work as “Spotlight Artist” in two solo shows. The exposure afforded me the opportunity, via invitation, to display my works at a Bellevue, Washington art show benefit.
Using dry-brush techniques gradually led me to a frustration with watercolor so in 2002, after a move to sunny San Diego, I switched to acrylics – a more deliberate water based media. Acrylics proved to be more suited to my style of realism. I attended classes under Laurel Nickels for basic acrylic technique which allowed me to fully explore the new media.
Unlike watercolor that constantly yielded “happy accidents”, acrylics enabled me to purposefully integrate art and engineering via a mathematics series that holds a special place in my heart. While the work is difficult to categorize, I think “conceptual realism” seems most appropriate. In addition to this mathematics series I have continued to create landscape and tonal art. I am currently studying under Rich Stergulz in San Diego, known for excellent portraits.
Now retired from the 8 to 5 grind, I have the time to explore, branch out and delve deep into alternative conceptual works while still remaining grounded in realism. I feel the best is yet to come.