About the Art

There is something magical when you find yourself in the flow of artmaking. There is a momentum that takes you away to imaginary landscapes where time seems to disappear. It is the ebb and flow of nature that has been a constant companion on my creative journey. Years ago, as an undergraduate at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, I experienced that sense of flow during a hand-painted Batik class. I gravitated to the medium because of its expressive quality and frequently uncharted pathways. The artwork was stratified in color, line, and texture. In the end, each layer of wax played a significant role in the process. Encaustic painting is visually reminiscent of the Batik process. Encaustic painting is an ancient technique dating back to the 5th century B.C. The composition is created through the application of molten wax and pigment. The surface quality provides opportunities for experimentation, play, and unique surface characteristics.

Utilizing the encaustic painting process, I create works of art that explore the expressive nature of color, line, texture, space, and movement. I am drawn to this medium because of its ability to incorporate techniques connected to printmaking, photography, sculpture, and collage. Through the layering and fusing of wax, I experiment with the medium to create surface qualities that explore color schemes and the use of space. I am captivated by how the wax flows and interacts on the surface of each wooden canvas. An incredible sensation occurs when the wax begins to set, and the colors start to fuse. As I paint, I strive to create works that cultivate a sense of wonder and delight the eye.