In my paintings I’m a storyteller at heart. Subjects are taken from nature, seen in a moment of rich color and magical light, inspiring strong emotions that need to be captured. A red cardinal soaring high amidst colorful leaves and azure sky gives me an impression of hope and peace. I imagine that the cardinal might be a spiritual visitation by a departed loved one. Cattle grazing in a verdant pasture filled with brightly colored wildflowers gives me a sentiment of comfort and awe. A soulful eyed dog with rainbow colored fur gazing at a beautiful sunset gives me a sense of joy and love. Every painting depicts a story that needs to be remembered, be it a bird in flight, cows peacefully grazing, or a dog happily watching a sunset. I take photographs of my subjects at the moment I see them and work with them later, eliminating unwanted details, changing size relationships, exaggerating colors and creating imaginary images. I use primarily watercolor on paper for the bright pigments, fluidity and spontaneity of the medium, although I also work in acrylic paint if I need the intense colors achieved in that medium. I work in a representational style, using detailed brushwork against larger vibrant graphic shapes, always striving to capture the light, color and emotion that inspired me in the first place.