Artist Statement:

My work is an archaeological dig into the subconscious. It is an analysis of my past memories, relationships, and decisions in order to compare them to the present, whether good or bad.  I use oil paint because it is the ideal material to convey the passing of time.  When creating a painting, I am continuously making edits and covering up entire sections with more paint.  I take inspiration from what is already put down on the canvas but create something entirely new from it.  It is similar to the concept that in referencing the past mistakes a person made can help them learn and grow in the present.  

Even though my work is very personal, the goal is to allow the viewer to relate to the painting on their own emotional level. The figure is often included because it connects the viewer to the work like a mirror. It allows the painting to be more accessible while also containing abstract mark making.   The color, composition and textures express more of the mind's deliberation and a stream of consciousness.  Colors in the background are muted to push space and to reference how memories are never as clear as the present. The viewer is unable to see what the entire painting was before it was finished just as you have no idea what a person has been through or is going through by simply looking at them. I hope my work can promote honest emotional connections and more conversations about mental health.