ArtistStatement

Artist Statement

My work is influenced by the concept of semiotics. Semiotics is the science of signs. Language, whether verbal or visual, is part of semiotics. I think a language goes beyond grammar and vocabulary. The signs we use to communicate often contain multiple meanings depending on factors such as context, experience, and the audience receiving the signs. I am interested in exploring a visual language of signs in my work.

The images chosen for my work are highly symbolic and allegorical. The meaning behind each piece is completely dependent on the viewer’s perspective. The piece can be enjoyed purely on a visual basis or become deeply meaningful.

There are several artists who influence my work. The idea of juxtaposing seemingly unrelated images is an answer to David Salle. Chuck Close and Philip Pearlstein have influenced my figurative work. Caravaggio’s lighting finesse also is a great inspiration to me. The art nouveau movement inspires me and the fluidity of Alphonse Mucha's work is genius. I thoroughly enjoy painting realistically with watercolor, and the exploration of myself and my spirituality has provided an interesting myriad of ideas for my work.

My art work is a combination of storytelling and spirituality. So each image moves beyond the beauty of the lines, forms, and colors to speak it's own visual language. Each series I do may have a slightly different style, but the continuity of the symbolism gives unity to my body of work.