Light is a dominant factor in my works.  Light and energy are in every aspect of our lives. 

Visual light describes our perspectives of the world and the environment around us. 

 

Light is everywhere.  Even in the darkest of darks, there is some form of energy. Light is the source for all understanding, both physical and spiritual. 

In my paintings I am trying to grasp a better understanding of my environment by studying the definition given to me by light.  Light defines form, color, shape, texture, depth.   I try to capture this and translate it onto canvas through paint.

 

I am also drawn to scenes of solitude and aloneness.  Objects and/or people that are separated and alone for just a moment in quiet, reflective thought or being.  The stillness can be quite powerful.

 

 

part II     Re-creation Challenge

When I see light illuminating an object or person and defining it, I have an overwhelming desire to re-create it, to study it, to learn from it.  I feel I gain the most information by trying to re-create the image on canvas, through paint.  "Passion" originally meant "suffering".  To have a passion for something is to suffer through it in order to gain higher knowledge or enlightenment.  

 

 

part III    The Process

The process is quite lengthy, sometimes tedious, but always rewarding and satisfying. 

For my paintings, all frames are hand-built by my wonderful husband!  I stretch my own canvas.  I wet the canvas to tighten it.  I apply at least 4 coats of gesso, sanding lightly in between coats. 

The paintings start with a pencil sketch, then layer upon layer of paint.  I work from within the object first.  From within.  What does it consist of on the inside?  What colors are in there that we think we can't see?   We think we cannot see them, but they are in there and they seep through to help define the form.  I work from within, gradually building outward to the final layer.