I blend classic realism with blocks of color reminiscent of stained glass into an unusual style – Bright Art.
I grew up in a family of artists and was given an “old school”, classic art training. I studied in France under Siegfried Hahn and in Tucson under Carolyn Orr. I also studied art at the University of California, Riverside and the University of Alaska, Juneau.
I designed and built stained glass windows professionally as Moonshadows for ten years. My windows sold to churches, businesses, and homes across the United States. I studied new techniques and style under Narcissus Quagliata at the Pilchuck Institute in Washington.
I returned to concentrating on oils in 1996. I painted realistic portraits, still-lifes, and landscapes. In 2001, I had a solo show at the Fallon, Nevada Convention Center. Still influenced by the art of stained glass, I began adding blocks of color into the traditional portraits to encourage the imagination and participation of the viewer. The blocks of color became more predominant in the paintings, to become Bright Art.
I prepare my canvas in a soft color with medium so that I am not working on a white surface. Then I draw the subject in charcoal on the canvas. I do not use any projections or transfers so that I add my personal touch into the drawing. Normally, I paint the whole painting as an under painting in a monochrome. This adds a depth to the painting and later will subtly tie the second coat of colors together. Finally, I paint using bright colors to illustrate the beautiful spirit of the subject. I choose the color based on light and shadow, warmth and cool, and intuition. I use Gamblin paint when possible and Galkyd SD medium as they are less toxic than some others.
In 2006, my paintings lighted a gallery in Portland’s Pearl District. CNN.com’s web site is energized by the display of Attitude in its “State of the Art” gallery. This summer you may have seen may work at the Lake Oswego Art Festival. These oil paintings are unique. They bring a touch of bright art into people’s lives and add elegance to homes and businesses. I hope you love them as much as I do. |
