For me, art calls for simplification of the complexities, which occur in nature, and as an artist I strive to transfer that feeling of awe and wonder to the viewer. I am fascinated by the similarity in the way the sun’s rays cast their glow on both man-made objects and elements in the natural world alike.

I love the inspiration one receives while painting out-of-doors, experiencing the emotion of the site’s atmosphere.  On the other hand, working in my studio from photographs provides the artistic opportunity to select the weather as well as the season without having to endure the effects of inclement weather.  In either setting, my first challenge is to establish an appropriate composition for the subject matter.

My preferred substrate is Art Spectrum paper because of its texture and its availability in a wide choice of colors. The selection of the pigments used in each piece is determined by the underlying paper color. First, an initial value sketch is created using a limited number of colors in harmony with the paper color. I work all areas of the paper to narrow down an image that pleases me.  Pastels provide a wide range of intense colors, and as a general rule I use a combination of Rembrandt, Grumbacher, Schminke, Sennelier and Terry Ludwig pastels.  By applying color using the side of the pastel, I am able to combine colors while still incorporating the paper color.   I never blend the pastels with my fingers as such blending destroys the luxuriousness of the colors, dulling the effect and flattening the surface.  As the painting progresses, I work to clarify the forms and space in the landscape. In the concluding steps of completing the painting, attention is focused on drawing the eye to the focal point using color, value and texture.

Human existence becomes meaningful to me when viewed within the context and patterns of our natural environment.  After all, humans are a part of the natural experience.  In New England it is this harmony, man with nature that inspires me to create and to share my passion with others through the luminosity of the pastel medium. I hope you enjoy my impressions and the joy I feel for the New England landscape.