I have never been one to color inside the lines. My focus is on the space that radiates and surrounds a subject. Producing artwork has always relied on the exploration of a medium, documenting what I envision, and the intuition guiding my hand. As a child, I was attracted to folk tales and diverse cultures. In time, I was able to submerse myself in travel and experience firsthand the connections between people, place, and communities. This drive and willingness to explore resonates in my artwork. My intention is to depict what connects our shared humanity as opposed to what separates us. I desire to evoke and preserve the spirit of the moments often times overlooked or taken for granted. The combination of these experiences provides an intimate gaze into places not only across the world, but in my own backyard. Of particular importance are the connections being lost, displaced, or diminished.

Photography is a tool in my process of creating. I often use my own photographs, anonymous photos or permitted photographic archives as reference. Often the same subject is used for a series of paintings but the approach I take, the medium, and color differs to explore a variety of visual and emotional connections. I’m always searching for a little gem—the way somebody’s postured, the activity itself, how spaces are blocked out in the image, or how the subjects are interacting. I’m interested in light, form, color and line.

For an example, these three paintings were influenced by the Belizean Birthday Party from 1998.

Aidian's Birthday, Mixed media on canvas, 2012, 20 x 20”, Private Collection

Sharing Cake, Mixed media on panel, 2008, 5 x 7”. Private Collection

Party Hats,Mixed media on panel, 2010, 5 x 7 “, Private Collection.

The paintings document the celebration below.

An afternoon of celebrating, Belizean style.