My Process

Color & Flow

My process is based on the therapeutic nature of art. 

I like to start with whatever color I feel drawn to in the moment, then I let that guide me.

I don’t usually know what I am going to create. I try to let go and allow my subconscious to run free without any expectations of a specific result. I just feel intuitive and entranced. I may sense a certain flow or direction in my arms and body movements, so I just go with it. 

I feel like a vessel for the art to come through, so I am filled with curiosity as I free flow. I find that very liberating.

Medium

For my paintings, I like using acrylic on strong gallery-wrapped canvas. Acrylic is fast drying, so it allows me the freedom to come back and work on layering or touch-ups within just a few hours or days. I love big flat brushes for the freedom and boldness of movement on large canvas, and sometimes I add a little water or paint softener to help me get that fluidity and full body motion in every stroke.

I like to start with a base color, then layer from there. Sometimes I will paint all around the canvas, including the sides while I am flowing with the main artwork. Other times, I may complete the main artwork then paint the sides with a solid color acting as a frame.

A painting can take several sittings, layers, and touch-ups to complete. The final touch is usually a layer of protector, in the form of either spray or liquid varnish applied with a brush or sponge. I also like to use varnish to add translucent hues for an elusive visual effect when an art piece calls for it.

For my drawings, I like the boldness, simplicity and instant drying of black ink or felt on gallery boards. I like the thick stability of a gallery board and that it is ready to frame as soon as it’s finished. Ink or felt helps me create a more detailed style of art and since it is permanent, it ensures no second-guessing my intuitive motions. It’s a combination of deep focus and complete freedom. I am always so curious with the ink sketches  because they are detailed even while I have very little idea of what is being created before my very eyes and with my own hands!