ARTIST'S STATEMENT

Painting to me is a visual statement about my response to what I see and feel around me. The visual response is not always immediate. Sometimes images stored away from childhood will push their way to the forefront. Other times visual ideas will emerge from many other sources. There are times when the idea will present itself on the blank sheet of paper or canvas. The process is never quite the same and this helps me to keep a ''fresh eye''.

Some paintings begin with a tightly defined thought sketched out comprehensively in a small version. Other paintings take shape from loosely applied thin paint which is then built up with opaque paint or pastel which defines the idea and refines color and form. Some subject matter seems to demand a linear approach with color added as a secondary but very important element.

There are always surprises to build on and taking advantage of them is pad of the joy of painting.

Strong design has always been a very important element in my work. Design to me is the ''bone structure'' on which all the other elements in a painting or drawing hang. To achieve an emotional response with design, color, line and form, with my point of view, is my ultimate goal.