Artist Statement

       My art has not seemed to change much.  Characteristics that defined my work twenty years ago; color and light, remain as the obvious visual evidence of my self expression.
In a world so ripe with aesthetic challenge, I too wonder at this dogged consistency.  Wonder; until I remember that this “self expression” is in reality more of a personal mission---not so much about me, but more about understanding and uncovering an expression of Beauty.  My seeming consistency is, in fact, only evidence that I believe I am on the right path and that deviation at this point would be the same as giving up that quest.

       “Beauty”?  That’s a great example of a single word being asked to do too much.  Clearly, I am following a very personal definition of “Beauty”.  A definition that is best explained through a story…

       Many years ago I was conducting a workshop about my art---techniques and purpose.  As an introduction, I was attempting to explain the aesthetic motivation behind my work and I was not making much headway.  This wasn’t an audience of accomplished artists or even ambitious art students.  They were mostly mothers.  Women who had taken a significant “time-out” to raise families and were now returning to their art making roots.

       Noting their growing frustration with my art-speak and our shared passion for parenting, I tried to relate my aesthetics through that common bond.  After asking if they had children(almost all had) I asked them to recall one of those days when the kids had tested every last bit of their patience.  From their expressions I could tell this was not a first choice for much of my audience but they obliged.  Then, I continued, try to remember that moment about twenty minutes after the last scolding, when you had finally succeeded in subduing them in bed.  Remember wondering if they really were asleep or just plotting their next move.  Remember tiptoeing down the hall and silently cracking open the door; letting that shaft of light fall across their now sleeping and angelic faces.  And then, remember how you felt as you savored that quiet moment.  The sweet smile, the gentle breath, the sense of peace, comfort and security.  It’s a feeling that defies words and it’s that feeling that fuels my aesthetic efforts.

       There is a reason  I struggle with difficult materials, invent frustrating techniques and tolerate relentless failure.  For me, the reason is an unfailing desire to give form to feeling.  An attempt to connect myself, and my audience, with a “better place.”   To express some of what is so wonderful in the world.

       That goal has been both elusive and seductively possible.  Porcelain, pattern, color and light are some of the keys available to aide me in unlocking this Beauty.  While finding the right sequence and order may challenge, every success leads me further down the same path and excites my passion to continue the quest.