I have always been intrigued by watercolor as an art form, and how it captures light, unlike any other medium. For several years, my focus was on digital art, but in 2013, I focused my painting using watercolor as a medium.
My subjects are based on the places I have visited in Iowa and throughout the United States and world. My architectural background leads me towards painting architectural subjects, but I find interesting subjects in the landscape around me. I travel the countryside of Iowa and find the rural landscapes, small town and city structures, and the industrial areas of the rivers to be compelling.
I do some paintings en plein air, but the majority are completed in my studio. I usually begin with a small value sketch with pencil to determine composition and values prior to painting. When traveling, I like to paint or draw sketches, and always keep a sketchbook with me for pencil and watercolor sketching. I take photographs for reference use in the studio. I also use the sketchbook for studies in the studio to work on technique and composition. You can view some of my sketches in the sketch gallery. My works are predominantly watercolor on 140# rough watercolor paper. I also add gouache, ink and gesso in some of my paintings to create highlights, interest and focus.
My intention is not to create a photo realistic image of a scene, but to capture the feeling of the scene.
In 2017, I was awarded signature status in the Iowa Watercolor Society, as well as having works selected for both the Member Exhibition and the International Exhibition of the National Watercolor Society. My painting "San Diego Harbor" received an award in the International Exhibition. I have had works selected for the traveling exhibition of the Iowa Watercolor Society each year since joining in 2015.
