Juried Artist BPAF 2019

As an artist, my primary experience of the world is visual. My gift is the ability to communicate this experience through art. My art is derived from my participation in and observation of the dance of life around me. I have traveled extensively and often find inspiration from these experiences . I enjoy painting landscapes and explorations of the figure in motion. Whatever the subject, it is my intention to reach beyond the simple reflection of a physical object, to communicate to the viewer on a deeper level. I am interested in the interplay of light, shadow and texture in defining form and expressing the living energy of the subject. In my landscape paintings, for example, I am painting not only a tree, but it’s interaction with the environment, light, moisture, air, soil. In figurative work I often place the subjects within their social and cultural environment describing family interactions, or the rhythm and movement of dance, games or festivals. My goal is to encourage people to observe life more thoughtfully.

My primary medium is soft pastel. I prefer pastel for a number of reasons, it's directness of execution, the unmatched brilliance and vibrancy of color, it's versatility and permanence. I am currently also working with water soluble oils. I am experimenting with multi layered glazes, which allow colors to evolve as I work. My style has evolved naturally from the interaction between the medium and my artistic vision. While many paintings are completed on location, others evolve in the studio from a combination of sketches, photographic references and creative imagination.

Art begins with the creation of the painting. Art is a form of communication as well as self-expression. As an artist it is not only necessary to make art available to the viewer but increasingly to educate the viewer to help them to fully appreciate the experience of art. I have been actively involved in local and national art organizations. I served on the Art Advisory Committee for the NCAR Community Art Program. I have served as Exhibition Chair and Education Chair on the board of the Boulder Art Association. I was a founder and president of the B.A.A. Pastel Painters. My multiple tasks as president include planning and organizing monthly meetings, painting expeditions, exhibitions, publicity, and representing our society at the biannual I. A. P. S. Convention.
For many years I have been an art instructor in many venues including: University of Colorado, Department of Continuing Education, Open Studios School of Art, and Boulder Valley School District Program for Lifelong Learning. I have taught private and small group classes in my studio and with art associations. In my spare time, like many artists, I give lectures, and demonstrations at schools, senior residences, and art events and local art associations.