My art is a gift that
allows me to experience the creative process. This process is my
path to self-discovery. My paintings are merely the product of
that journey and process.
I would prefer my art not be logically analyzed and dissected;
it should be taken in as a whole and allowed to bring up emotion
in the viewer rather than making a particular statement. My goal
is to enforce the ancient idea that art is vital to the growth
and spirituality of society. My art does not adhere to any one
religion or philosophy, it is meant to allow the viewers to
expand their consciousness and help discover their own spiritual
path.
I do not logically plan out my paintings, I start with an
initial inspiration, a color or a symbol for example, and from
there it's almost like channeling. I call it "intuitive," but
basically it's tapping into the creative force and letting it
flow. It's as if creating opens up the soul and lets in some
divine magical energy. There is a spark, a connection, a feeling
almost like being in love.
Creating art is amazing, to make something from nothing,
seemingly out of thin air. It is like magic. Artists are
magicians. They give people the ability to believe in beauty,
even when there is so much ugliness and pain everywhere. All I
wish for, when people view my art, is that they open their hearts
and feel it. One of my favorite quotes is by the artist Claude
Monet. He said, "Everyone discusses my art and pretends to
understand, as if it were necessary to understand, when it is
simply necessary to love." Art created in this context does more
than just simply reinforce the current condition of the culture;
it makes a positive and uplifting contribution to society.
I work mostly with acrylic paint. I also use collage to add
texture and depth. Often I will use torn paper first, apply that
to the canvas, gesso over it and then begin a painting. Other
materials I utilize are gold leaf, fabric, especially kimono
fabric and paper with text or calligraphy. I don't believe in
using tools such as rulers or templates, I prefer objects fall
into place naturally where they may and not be forced by the
rules of measuring. Imperfections are what make things unique and
beautiful.
I am inspired by Eastern and Asian art, Aboriginal and African
art, cave painting, and graffiti art. I am also interested in
symbols, astrology, ancient scripts, tarot cards, tattoo art,
magic, and dreams.
My work has been shown in NY, LA, Tokyo, Seattle, Phoenix and Ohio.
Kamakura, Japan 2003
