Inspirations?
For me, the work of Giotto is my most continuous inspiration, along with MANY artists, notably Alice Neel, Jennifer Bartlett, David Hockney, Xenia Hausner, Alex Kanevsky, John Singer Sargent, Winslow Homer, and Fairfield Porter.
Techniques?
I've become old fashioned about technique. I use a traditional, solvent-free medium: walnut oil. That's it! Challenging, but well worth it, for it's non-yellowing, non-toxic qualities. I paint primarily on primed birchwood panels and sometimes build a frame directly onto the panel, crafting it specifically for the subject matter. Sanding, priming, metal leafing and staining and sealing all go into the process before it's ready to be painted upon.
Career history?
Whilst in college (KU, Lawrence, KS) I worked not only in painting, but built earthworks and did photographic projects. I created and ran juried student shows and collaborated on video and dance projects.
After moving to Boston in 1983, I received a fellowship for the Fine Arts Work Center (1986-7) in Provincetown, MA with a gallery show of my work at the Walker Gallery after the 7 month residency.
Eventually I travelled the west and landed in the small town of Jerome, AZ, where I was enthralled with the light. I stayed there and painted for a year and then moved to Lawrence, KS to share a studio with a friend.
In 1992, I quit painting (!) and focused on performance art, improv comedy, experimental theater and spoken word.
This transformation led me to Seattle, WA, but instead of theater, I began painting again, only to stop for a parenting hiatus.
Now in Seattle I've made a home and studio base in full swing, with new inspirations that still feel close to my heart when I had the eyes of a child. Now I'm gaining the wisdom to go along with that wonder.