My work has grown over the years from almost photo-realism; such as a close up of a flower, to my current works that symbolize the strength and character of women, but with a twist of symbolism and humor.

My most recent works: "COPPER" series, have become studies in emotions, both mine and others in my life. I decided to revisit the years of Renaissance and old master portraits. The wealthy were portrayed as unhappy, stern, even scared, regardless of their wealth. I decided to experiment in reliving the portraits of the masters, but modifying them to fit my style and emotion. The models are enlongated, because the beauty of today is that "thin is in."

.Their emotions are sometimes subtle, sometimes not so much. What is she trying to say? Is she happy with her lot in life? Does money truly buy happiness? What do those props mean in relation to the model? There is always a little tongue-in-cheek humour hidden somewhere in the piece.

They are also a study in the strength of women. Women have always been warriors of a different nature. We are strong even if it is sometimes a hidden strength, although, do you see the buff woman?

Technique:

I first draw out the designs for tooling the copper frame, then, after the tooling is finished, the copper is patinaed with liver of sulfur. I next buff off what I want to remain shiny. Next, I mount the copper to board and seal the patina. Then, I finally get to paint the portrait. I usually have 3 or more pieces in various stages of finish. Each take about 2 months to complete.

I hope you enjoy my work!