Artist Statement:
It seems as though I am thinking about either finding a new subject or the current in-progress painting on my easel. I actually have a “potential paintings†file and I may not use one of the photos there until I have completely come to terms as to what I want to do with the subject matter. It could take years. Once I return to an idea, I may crop the scene or extend it. But first I do many sketches to define the composition and the values. In many cases, I do a complete small painting, decide if I want to proceed, and then paint a larger version. I’ve already worked out the kinks and familiarized myself with the subject matter. In the end, I may paint different versions of the same scene. I also paint plein air. My objective is to find a focal point and develop it into a full painting very quickly. I make note of the local color, the light and shadows, and specific details of the objects that I don’t want to forget. There is only a slight chance I will walk away with a finished painting. Mostly I take it home and do another painting of the scene later. So much of my painting depends on my mood. If I’m not in the mood, I stop painting and wait for a better day. There is always a better day.