I find inspiration in the world around me and look for the richness in painting scenes that have a strong sense of visual storytelling.
Why do you make the art that you make?
When I draw and paint I am completely focused. I’m in a state of mind similar to mindfulness and meditation. All of my skills at observation come together on the paper. In fact, I am so completely engaged that I won’t even notice when the mountain lion eats me.
What inspires your work the most?
When you’re creating new work, what is your general process?
Generally, I use Twinrocker Handmade watercolor paper for it’s random texture and bright white surface. That’s tacked down at each corner on a thick piece of foam core with push pins. While standing or sitting, I hold an opened watercolor pan box and a sponge in my left hand while also holding onto the piece of foam core. Following that, with my right hand I draw a quick pencil or sometimes not. I keep a few brushes in my can of water placed down on my right side. And paint.
What is your personal and/or artistic background?
There was always something I found to draw growing up in the small rural town of central Illinois. I had to do something in order to escape my chaotic household. At the time I had no idea that I was establishing drawing skills. I went on from there to work a long and winding career in illustration from drawing farm machinery parts manuals, to arcade games, to storyboards for TV commercials, drawing a cartoon strip, to illustrating picture books. All the while painting like a madman. I slept a full night a few years ago but I don’t remember exactly when that was.
What other artists or artworks inspire you?
Cartoonists inspire me for their skill at simplifying images and getting to the message. The way they eliminate the nonessential elements can be just as important as the gag itself. It’s always worth taking time studying their work.
I raise my glass to cartoonists.