My paintings are representational narratives which mark memories and moments of my journey growing up and growing older in a small-town mountain culture. The images are metaphors for the psychological impact of relationships and stereotypes, and a way to materialize responses to things real and imagined. Although I feel I best express myself figuratively, images of animals and plants often emerge in my art because of their symbolism and a strong affiliation with both.
My artwork develops as I rework the composition and refine my intention. There are usually several variations of each painting underneath the finished surface. I am captivated by layering media (printed paper, ink, paint) and then scratching and scraping back into the layers to reveal traces of images and colors underneath.
I have thirty-five years of art education experience. Since retiring from teaching, working in my studio is a priority. I exhibit my work regionally and am represented by Carlton Gallery in Banner Elk, NC.
