I find myself drawn to imagery and story. Intrigued by children and their world of possibilities, I wonder: who will they become? What decisions will they make that will direct their journey in life? What fears and obstacles will they face? Images of flight: birds, butterflies, dragonflies, appear symbolizing joy and hope. My love of quilts and textiles inspires the use of borders around the central characters. I explore an idea or composition with a series of paintings and begin by browsing through files of assorted images. What would I like to paint today? How can I change this image from something ordinary into something mysterious, humorous, or thought provoking? Maybe I will place this object out of context or change its size and scale. Now, what does it remind me of? Until I start composing, I am not sure where the image will take me. My paintings are visual poems drawing the viewer into an open-ended story through images that ignite the imagination and sense of delight.
Currently as an MFA student at Radford University in Virginia, I am exploring new imagery that continues to focus on the process of "becoming." Who are we? Where is the rhythmic cycle of life leading us? How can I present the viewer with imagery where they have room to write their own story?
