Looking beyond the surface has always been a very important part of my artistic practice. I spent twenty-seven years documenting over 6,500 individual heart surgeries in the operating room, more than anyone in the world.
My current practice continues to relate directly and metaphorically to the heart. By using the labor-intensive technique of encaustic, with the layering and melting of wax and applying pigment I can achieve depth that looks like polished stone, cracked clay or ethereal space.
I work with these layers of imagery and spatial planes, attempting to connect with people on a deep personal and emotional level. I strive to capture the quiet moments of life through art.
Each of my encaustic paintings is unique, just like each individual anatomical heart. I write about the emotional inspiration of each of my paintings to connect the imagery with the emotional content.
An important aspect of my work is the material qualities of encaustic. By using a labor-intensive technique of layering and melting wax and applying pigment I can achieve depth that looks like polished stone, cracked clay or ethereal space.
I use the lotus and water lily motif because I have carefully studied, drawn and painted the plants I have grown over the past ten years. In Eastern traditions the lotus reflects compassion, clear awareness and enlightenment. It’s said that the hearts of beings are represented in an unopened lotus.
I work with these layers of imagery and spatial planes, attempting to connect with people on a deep personal and emotional level. I strive to capture the quiet moments of life through art.
