Artist Statement

Funny thing happened in 2020. I realized I was enjoying the shut down. Like a lot. It was the life of which I had always dreamt. Suddenly the world was aligned with my anti-social instincts.

So, like every artist everywhere, I started my pandemic series. But instead of focusing on death and government malfunction, my paintings and sculptures focus on the daily boredom of 30 years of marriage, my dog chasing squirrels, and the total futility of weighing myself. I tell my life stories with honesty, affection and tongue-in-cheek awareness of my banal life, or JOMO (the joy of missing out, as the kids say).

I use materials that are often considered “less than worthy”, such as cardboard from Amazon orders, glitter, embroidery thread, and various clays. I incorporate these layers into the oil painting base, warping perspectives and building up the surface for dramatic effect, making objects pop from the surface. I often extend objects beyond the edge of the panel.

I embellish bisque vases as extensions of my paintings. I disregard function and enjoy the challenge the 3D form presents to my storytelling goals.

I am inspired by artists such as Marisol and Faith Ringgold, who used folk art to simplify and subvert expectations and Grayson Perry for his irreverent humor.  I also love the painterly interiors of Bonnard and Munch. What has emerged is a personal and clear eyed, if slightly skewed, narrative of my life.