Artist Statment

My body of work is driven by my inner child. I like to choose subject matter that would have, and still does, visually entrance me, such as: candy, rhinestones, transparent toys, jello, slime, jewel like fruit, anything with an abundance of color and texture.  By using these nostalgic and sometimes iconic objects,  I then create a level of tension that abruptly makes one question their own childhood memory. I do this through juxtaposition.  I may add an unexpected pattern or b a moment of discomfort (ie an eye ball, an insect, etc).  

I use acrylic paints which allows me to maintain vibrant color, additionally I play with different mediums to create layers of transparency as well as wetting agent to create a watercolor like texture and fluidity.  I also love acrylics as I paint quickly,  and acrylics allow me work at my desired speed.  

 My compositions and color are greatly influenced by pop artists like James Rosenquist and Tom Wesselman. Through the iconic imagery used as well as the visual jokes created in their harmonious and almost fluid like compositions, speak to how I move through my own work. I am also influenced by the highly personal and detailed compositions  of  William Harnett’s trompe de l’oeil paintings. 

At its core, my work is undeniably feminine and silly.  Along with silly femininity, I create a level of confrontation within each piece.   A millennial through and through, Lisa Frank merchandise has made its way into my works DNA.  I love the saccharine sweet imagery, but I flip it slightly.  This is where the aggressively feminine influence of  Leonora Carrington, and Judy Chicago make their way into my choices of subject and composition.

My work is inherently meant to speak to the audiences’ inner child through color and whimsical composition.   But upon closer examination the audience begins to interrogate and confront their own memories of childhood.