Lebanon, PA
I'm a watercolorist, my work is a blend of the natural world and the imaginative one. Through my paintings, I seek to capture the delicate balance between what is seen and what is felt—drawing inspiration from animals, insects, and landscapes, as well as from myths, dreams, folklore, and fantasy.
My painting, “Palustris” which is Latin for “of the marsh”, was inspired by my time in Florida last year. I kayaked among the old mangroves and thought about the moments that might be playing out in the marsh, and what’s lurking underneath.
I work with professional-grade watercolor paints on 300lbs, cold-pressed 100% cotton paper. I work with a limited palette, to maintain cohesiveness throughout each piece.
My process begins with an observation or a loose narrative idea. I sketch in graphite to establish the composition. From there, I transfer the sketch to my good paper. I then build up the painting in light washes. I use techniques such as wet-on-wet for, wet on dry, dry brush, negative painting, and lifting for some highlights.
Thematically, my work explores a cross-over of fantasy and reality. Whether painting a glowing forest inhabited by unseen creatures or a quiet moment between critters sharing a meal, my goal is to create a sense of wonder. I hope viewers are not only drawn into a visual story but also reminded of their own connection to the natural and the numinous.
Watercolor flows with a life of its own. I embrace letting the medium lead as much as I guide. In doing so, I invite the viewer into a world that is grounded in nature and touched by magic.
