Artist's Statement

A quote from Grant Wood describes a condition from which he and many of us suffer: taking too much for granted. Wood said, "...To my great joy, I discovered that in the very commonplace, in my native surroundings, were decorative adventures and that my only difficulty had been in taking them too much for granted." Woods' words ring with truth. My goal as an artist is to capture the wonder of the often overlooked ordinary, the commonplace beauty around us, those little details that make all the difference in our daily lives. The rough hue of rocks, lush blue woodlands, weathered wood grains, and distant meandering dirt roads never cease to appeal to me. I attempt to share the beauty from which routine blinds us. My work can be purchased on ebay or by contacting me personally.

Saturday, February 28, 2015

Still Waters 16x20 150.00

This painting was inspired by a trip out West two summers ago. ...so many great photos. When I look at photos later, I sometimes wonder why a particular photo was taken. I don't see why I took that particular shot with a painting in mind. This photo, however, was NOT one of those. Still Waters was the result of a shot of two horses grazing in the early morning. They were different colors and postures, but the silence and peace was the appeal to me. I think I could live in South Dakota; of course, I would have to get some horses.

Friday, February 27, 2015

Red Deer Stag 12x16

This is an ideal piece for the animal lover or the person who simply wants some color in a space. The warm tones of autumn always create a pleasant display.

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

El Calor 11x14 $90.00

I've stayed home all day and painted, waiting on the snow that has been talked up all week. There was NONE. Although disappointed, I did have a nice day painting. In honor of the snow that didn't show, I painted a southerly south of the border scene, warm and inviting. Maybe spring will be here soon.

El Calor 11x14 90.00

I have spent today at home waiting for snow, and there was NONE. In honor of the snow that never was, I painted a south of the border scene that was warm and welcoming.

Thursday, February 19, 2015

Coffee Closeup 8x10

I have a propensity for "intimate" views of a still life; this is an example. ...I think I'll go get a cup for myself.

Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Oxfords 11x14 80.00

Reminded of a pair I once owned, I couldn't resist these suede oxfords. If shoes could talk...

Sunday, February 8, 2015

White House 11x14

 Lit by light, this house assumes an ethereal, dreamy appeal. I would love to  think that this place actually exists and peace reigns there. Is that an idea that is too much of a dream?
 

Saturday, February 7, 2015

Autumn Curtain 16x20 $90.00

I am often asked what I best like to paint, and my response is always landscape. Foliage, wood, stone, and earth, those are the elements to which I am drawn. What can I say? I am a simple person, simple as the earth. Although simple, the pattern in this piece with horizontal pattern and contrast has always been pleasing to me. What do you think? Ready for placement in a home...

Thursday, February 5, 2015

Morning Light on the Terrace 16x20 100.00


To create texture on the walls in this painting, I applied a layer of carpenter's putty and then applied color as usual. As a result, the walls of the building looked more realistic, like mortar. I wouldn't want this look on everything, but I do like it here.

Wednesday, February 4, 2015

Tulips 6x8 $70.00

These last bitter days of cold have been a harsh reminder of how much I long for spring and the first blush of color. Bulbs are poking their heads up in some pots; hopefully, they will escape the low temp's wrath. Anticipating spring...

Sunday, February 1, 2015

Smoky Sunrise 10x20

A pleasant memory of mine is of a time when a painting buddy and I rose in the wee hours, traveled to a overlook, and painted a mountain sunrise. Memories such as these are the reason I love to paint, especially out of doors. There is no substitute. Heaven for me will be painting on location. Smokey Sunrise, alas, was not painted on location. While painting this piece, however, I remembered the sensations present on that cool June morning: surreal quiet, soft conversation, faint sounds of distant work traffic, and the rattle of paint tubes in my easel and paint box as I frantically prepared. The sunrise is a transitory moment; time is crucial in painting.  The final product of that morning's work, my painting, was not my best. However, the process is far more important than the final product.  I would like to think that I'm better for it.