Each layer informs the next. A richness of textures offers glimpses of the stories beneath. I use whatever I can get my hands on — everyday objects invited into the exchange of color, texture, and movement.
Around the seventh layer I retire to my overstuffed chair — away from my wall of paintings in progress. I gently survey the pieces from this new distance.
It is then when the figures come into view. From the layers appear images distinct and unmistakable, as if they’ve been there all along, just waiting for my eyes to adjust to their presence. The seemingly abstract layers of paint and marks take shape on their own and from where I sit, next to my candles and words of inspiration, I see them — courageous women, brilliant butterflies, creatures and kindreds.
I follow their lead as they guide me towards the completion of the painting. Their shapes becoming more defined, the colors more brilliant.
Often, the paintings have as many as ten layers when they are completed. Those with recognizable forms are my Figurative Mash-Ups — a combination of abstract and literal. Some remain shapes and textures even until the end, they are so beautiful in their abstraction. These are my Non-Objectives.
