Artist statement

In 2018, during my decision to get sober from the clutches of alcohol, I embarked on a journey to reinvent myself and style as an artist. Through this process I found the magic of pareidolia [A psychological phenomenon that causes people to perceive a specific image in a random or ambiguous visual pattern] mark making. As I blindly put a continuous line mark down, I then look to find an image. Automatism, free association, whatever image comes to mind. Often I see images of cartoons from my childhood, pop culture, personal experiences of fear, anxiety, depression and suicide. Recalling nights of drunken debauchery and toxic relationships, with a touch of added dark humor. I never know what the paintings are going to be until I make that first mark and the image comes forward from my psyche. My art has become a form of therapy, as I will analyze the finished pieces and try to understand where they came from. Through this reflection I have found that it helps me, come to terms with myself and is part of a healing process.

Materials I use are mixed media which include acrylic paint, acrylic/oil sticks, inks/dyes, spray paint, wood less color pencil, charcoal, graphite and marker.

I was born in St. Paul Mn. in 1969 and raised in Spokane Wa. since the age of 3. After graduating high school I decided to go to college and get a degree in graphic design. Once obtaining the degree, I realized this was not the direction for me. I stayed in college for an additional year to receive a C.F.A in fine art. At this time I was also playing in various art/rock bands. In pursuit of my art and music interests, lead me to cities such as Seattle Wa. Portland Or. Los Angeles Ca. and Las Vegas Nv. I currently reside in Spokane Wa. So I can help take care of my elderly parents.