As a painter, living in the rainforest challenges my senses. I am led to experiment and to try techniques in my work that are different--techniques to better depict this nature. The flora that has flourished for millions upon millions of years inspires me to paint. This lusciously verdant and intriguingly colorful presence soothes the soul yet dares me to interpret its ancient beauty with a few exciting strokes of my brush.
Although I find the feel of oil paint magical, I have chosen acrylic as my medium. The dampness of the rainforest dictates this. As I enjoy working quickly, I can still achieve the buttery feel of oils by using the acrylics with diverse mediums like 'matte medium' which also increases translucency and paint flow.
I love to juxtapose complementary, vibrant colors and play with tones and values. Choosing my palette, I have a design in mind. I proceed by sketching on the canvas. Then, my brush begins to flow and the painting takes on a life of its own. Caught up in the mystery of it all, I become merely a participant!
My background and love of music and dance always come to the fore as I paint -- the sensuality, the rhythms. However, my passion as a painter is color. It is truly magic and dominates my creative process.
I consider myself an Impressionist as I "take" with great respect and admiration from Master Painters such as Claude Monet, Alfred Sisley, Paul Cezanne and Childe Hassam.
