Artist Statement​

I most often paint people, animals and nature.

I’m inspired to paint people who pursue their passions fiercely. Those who were a bit ahead of their time, or who live outside the lines. The people who might be considered a little eccentric, wild, or unconventional. I admire those who follow their own path, even when it’s uncertain or misunderstood. They remind me to live authentically. My portrait work explores what makes us human. The texture, flaws and spirit that define us. The word airbrush is often associated with smoothing things out. I love to highlight every pore, wrinkle and “imperfection”.

Nature inspires me in a similar way. Not the obvious views, but unusual angles. A different point of view. I’m more likely to be moved to paint a microscopic view of a mushroom than a wide-angle shot of a beautiful landscape. Or an overhead view that makes you stop and really look.

My journey towards art and authenticity

I grew up around my dad’s auto body shop, dreaming of becoming an airbrush artist. But I went to college and became a web designer. After 13 years down that career path, I felt burnt out from computer work. In 2023 I took a break from work. I helped an artist friend paint a mural in a coffee shop and a spark inside me was relit. I picked up the airbrush I received 14 years prior as a graduation gift and I learned how to use it. Now I love to incorporate other techniques and tools in my work.

Since then, I’ve been building a studio practice that’s both a creative outlet and a form of personal expression. Painting puts me into a flow state and quiets my busy mind. I’m fully present. It’s mindfulness through making.

My mission isn’t just to paint things that look good on a wall. It’s to create art that resonates with people and reminds them to live boldly, passionately and authentically. Art that encourages curiosity and asks you to slow down, zoom in and see the world from a different point of view.