When I began creating art, I was challenging myself to paint a face in a way to evoke a certain emotion in the viewer. It then moved to focusing on nostalgia and exploring what techniques created that feeling. As my painting style developed, the use of emotion in my work has shifted. I tap into the events happening in the world around me and paint my emotional reactions to them. My focus is on realistic oil painting while adding expressionistic strokes to emphasize the feeling in the piece. I do not limit myself to using the exact colors found on the objects I am painting; I like to use the whole spectrum of colors in my work to add to the emotional response. The more saturated color, the better.
Once I get an idea for a painting, I break each element of the meaning down and find a way to represent it in a symbol. The symbols can range from color, animals, facial expressions, and other common objects. Many of my symbols come from reading Tarot Cards and significant objects from my past that have left lasting impressions on me. The placement of these symbols are used to create a cohesive, intriguing image that causes the viewer to undergo personal reflection and how their experiences fit into the meaning of the piece. Though most of my paintings have a serious tone to them, some contain an element of humor and fun. The humor is created by a juxtaposition between the meaning of the piece, the symbolism, and the color choices.
Although I have been in the process in creating my own style, I find that I am highly influenced by Erin Hanson, David Hockney, and Wayne Theibaud for their use of vibrant colors and expressive qualities in all of their work.
Once I get an idea for a painting, I break each element of the meaning down and find a way to represent it in a symbol. The symbols can range from color, animals, facial expressions, and other common objects. Many of my symbols come from reading Tarot Cards and significant objects from my past that have left lasting impressions on me. The placement of these symbols are used to create a cohesive, intriguing image that causes the viewer to undergo personal reflection and how their experiences fit into the meaning of the piece. Though most of my paintings have a serious tone to them, some contain an element of humor and fun. The humor is created by a juxtaposition between the meaning of the piece, the symbolism, and the color choices.
Although I have been in the process in creating my own style, I find that I am highly influenced by Erin Hanson, David Hockney, and Wayne Theibaud for their use of vibrant colors and expressive qualities in all of their work.