There are two processes which inform my art practice and the choices I make.

The Aesthetic Experience

Decision making around composition, colour, application and manipulation of the paint itself all contribute to the desire to create a successful artwork and in the process, become a better painter. I find it fascinating that a three-dimensional image can be created on a flat surface through use of subtleties of colour, allowing me to mold light and shade, colour and texture. Through simple brushstrokes I can bring a subject matter to light and life, and create beauty with meaning through the medium of paint. I observe the power and affect of slight variations of colour and tone, which attempt to evoke an emotional reaction within the viewer.

The Emotional Connection of the Viewer with the Painting

I am concerned with creating a relationship with the viewer and the painting. This influences my choice of size of canvas and the creative process of being involved in decision making from the beginning, choosing wood, building the stretcher, stretching and priming the canvas. This is an important role for me as it brings a sense of complete involvement in the making of the artwork from beginning to end.

Being innately drawn to paint life size figures, my preference is to work on large scale canvases. This allows me to form a connection and start a conversation with my subject matter through the use of paint. I would like the viewer to experience that same emotional connection with my art and the subject depicted.

Portraying a simple, single figure, I choose dark backgrounds to elevate the figure and give emphasis to the subject matter. Removing the background environment creates an undistracted atmosphere where the figure becomes timeless and uninterrupted.