I was born in Moncks Corner, SC in 1971. My first memory was of a sculpture in the center of a mall. I guess for as long as I can remember, I’ve been interested in art in one form or another.
Before college, I learned from Patricia Brinson, a very talented artist in South Carolina. I learned the fundamentals of painting during those years. Because she encouraged me to paint and enter contests, I was awarded several grants and scholarships, and was able to attend The Savannah College of Art and Design in 1989.
Although college was an important part of my life, I was more confused about what art was after graduating. Perhaps I had just absorbed so much information about the different artists, styles and mediums, I had lost my own personal interests with art. For whatever reason, I stopped painting for several years. However, I stayed creative, and worked with many artistic jobs and people. My focus during those years was building a career in computer animation. After studying film and video in college, and working with motion graphics, I became really interested in capturing movement within still images.
Tragedy hit my life when both my parents died. You come to realize how strong the human spirit is when you’re tested by repeated tragedy. However, good came from those darker times. I found my faith, and became interested in painting again. I feel I was molded into a much better person and artist because of all my experiences.
For all those reasons, the most important themes in my work today are: faith, mortality, color, and visual energy. There are many artists, who have influenced my work. Alexander Calder’s mobiles are pretty amazing. I also love the paintings of Alberto Giacometti. His use of repeating lines is wonderful. I also like the abstracted shapes of Louise Nevelson. Thomas Hart Benton is another artist who heavily influenced me. I absolutely love the energy in his artwork. Last but not least is Van Gogh and his spiritual themes.
I want to constantly better myself as an artist. I want my artwork to be more than decorative. It’s important that it draws you in, keep you interested, and be attractive. I also hope that during the process of viewing my work, one has a better understanding of me as an individual.
I now reside in Cary, NC
