When I was three years old, my grandpa took me fishing in northern Wisconsin. There we saw tall poplars, languid weeping willows, and large stately oaks near small, cool lakes. Grandpa pointed out the different trees. I was struck by their iridescent colors - silver, gold, cerise and purple; their smooth, slippery textures; their graceful, undulating forms. These images, colors, shapes still remain; and I continue to draw from them in my work today.

Images from a children's book, a bullterrier named Boodil. Being enchanted I painted her from every picture.

I combine my love of animals and nature using a variety of techniques. Loading panel in wax and pigment, watching colors change as layers get deeper, richer and fuller. Working textures with rugged handling, using various materials.

Groping for meaning represents my need and love for the mysterious. Being a process painter exploring abstract elements, delving into interiors.

Soutine, with his deep primitive richness and violent surfaces. Mark Rothko in his exuberant use of color. These artists influence me. But in the end, it is the discovery of my own journey while continuing to paint that give me greater meaning and pleasure.