A deep love for imperfect beauty and the belief that art is in everyone fuel my portraiture. As a conduit to other lifetimes, I construct stories of the past through the people of my present-day life. This series, Dramatis Personae, has given me a unique opportunity to exhibit my personal connection to history, and to share my deep longing for times that no longer exist.
My father introduced me to the Old Masters when I was very young, which had an indelible impact on me. These artists spoke directly to my heart from hundreds of years away, never needing to utter a single word to explain themselves. This showed that it was possible to convey all kinds of emotion through window light, a quiet moment of reflection or even a simple object. Thus began my transition into painting through the use of a camera.
The animals exhibited in this series are real. These beautiful creatures have a mind of their own which I admire and fully embrace. I respect their curiosity about the world, and that they bring immense wonder and unexpected moments to these scenes.
I have acquired a diverse collection of antique furniture, props and frames that carry their own stories and maintain an authenticity throughout the work. Through these items, a piece of history becomes entwined within a contemporary piece of art. It lifts my soul that their existence continues indefinitely.