About Me
Artistic Journey
When I was in preschool, my favorite time of day was when I was allowed to draw and paint. As I got older, this love for art and design led me to graduate from Virginia Commonwealth University with a bachelor's in fine arts. After trying different artistic styles abstraction became my favorite. I enjoy the freedom that abstraction provides in the interpretation of my ideas. I gather inspiration from all sorts of places; music, sounds, colors, words, even abstract concepts can lead me to a series of paintings. With abstraction I have the freedom to use different mediums and techniques, I'm able to bring them into the world.
Creative Experience
I know it's cliche, but I can't remember not drawing. My first memories of drawing were in elementary school. I gradually began to add painting into my skillset while watching PBS shows, of course Bob Ross was an influence. I worked on model making for fun, I even made action figure battle bases. In high school I was tapped to help paint murals and sets for plays. I turned my talent into a degree when I graduated from VCU with a major in sculpture. Since then, I've done small commissions for churches, schools, as well as private collector pieces. But I'm always up to trying new things. Like learning to integrate AR into my work.
Life Experience
I didn't go straight into being an artist full time, though I tried my hand a few times. I prioritized being a father and providing for my son. I worked in retail and food service all while developing my unique style. When times would get too stressful, I looked to my son to keep me going. The way he would look at my drawings and join in were the most fulfilling.
Those moments made me realize I, like most were more comfortable and happier in their own freedom. My freedom came whenever I tried to start my art career. However, I was still learning my style, and this was before social media, so things were a bit more difficult.
I wasn't until 2020 that I found the style that fit best. Watching YouTube artist like John Beckley, Jazza, Mohamed Mamoud, and a few others, brought non-representational abstraction was my thing. So finally at 46 years of age I decided to go for it. I just want to be happy and free, and I like to believe that comes through in my work. Not just with my color usage but also with the movement of my compositions.
Depth, Freedom, and Connection
Over time I began to take notice of my style changed to fit the trend, or passing trends, at the time. I was always a fan of cartoons and anime, but the incorporation of those things into my painting seemed forced. It wasn't until 2020, watching YouTube, that I found what I believe to be my style. Non-representational abstract art allows me to work in complete freedom and creativity. I let myself become subject to the canvas after choosing one color. In doing so, I start to experiment with color, texture, layers, and stencils without restraint. This allows me to create depth in the piece that pulls the viewer in.
This creates a connection between each individual. As no one person has the same experience when they look on my work. I want you to tell me what you see when you view my work. In the conversations I've had, and overheard, everyone sees something different they have to express to someone. I enjoy being the conduit for that connection.