Artist Statement
Art has always been a part of my life. From childhood doodling and a fascination with the bas relief carvings in an old wooden chest; to surrealism and abstraction with an avant garde, urban punk flavor in my adolescence and beyond.
On a larger scale I believe that art is a catalyst for social change and stimulation of thoughts and ideas. Art also enhances our surroundings and makes our world a more beautiful and interesting place to be.
Photo: Circle 23 Photography Portland OR
SCULPTURE
My early interest sculpture led to a small series in wood for friends. In 2003 I was commissioned to complete a mantle piece (Sally's Tree) which led to subsequent commissions and an expansion of style and scale.
During the project I was encouraged to use power tools. I experimented briefly with these but felt disconnected from the work. I was guiding the energy of a machine rather than making the imprint of my own energy and passion on the work.
Photo: Circle 23 Photography Portland OR
All sculptures in wood are created entirely using chisel and mallet. All shaped surfaces are hand sanded.
PAINTINGS
My choice of contemporary mixed mediums allows me to explore new ideas and applications. My paintings at times serve as a platform to express ideas or questions about our; world, society, philosophies and beliefs. My goal is to inspire thought on these issues as well as creating a visual enhancement of them.
My designs are hand drawn or cut. I do not use photo projection or computers in the production.
Materials used are archival quality. Investment value aside I hope that the art will carry down to future generations. In my own viewing of historical works of art I have found a window into earlier lives and worlds. The evolution of societies and cultures is a continuum of learning and building on the past.
"It takes humans to build humanity."
m.Eugene
Photo: Circle 23 Photography Portland OR
