When something is taken, something is always given. It is all a matter of perspective. I was not a painter or an artistic creator. I was a science educator living in the left side of my brain: all logic and analytical thought. So what is my story of living in the Right side of my brain?
Art is a story. It weaves emotion, observation, and experience all into one beautiful narrative. Imagine.. all that you hold dear is ripped away overnight. This is what Multiple Sclerosis can do as it affects all things related to your physical, emotional, and cognitive self. But as in all things, The Universe, through various means, does its best to maintain homeostasis. BALANCE. To show a new path, a new perspective. It has been a gift for me that is full of color, form, and purpose. This is my story, my truth. A reflection of my experiences and all that I am.
My body of work consists of mixed media pieces that explore the relationship between the ebb and flow of physical energy and the process of creating using paint and mixed media items all through an environmental lens. There are layers upon layers of fluidity in the work. The first layers of paint set the scene for the final layers of paper, recycled fabrics, and/or pen ink. Texture, color, and shape allow for depth and movement within each piece. To achieve this layering two acrylic techniques are used depending on my energy level. Certain pieces, such as the wildflower series, have several layers using a semi transparent medium with complementary colors that are sanded. The final layer is usually an ink pen and/or paint pen. The second acrylic technique has more layered semi-transparent gestural strokes. This is then followed by an opaque pigment that is carved into with various mark making tools in-order for the previous layers to be seen. Because I live in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina which has one of the most diverse plant environments in the US; as well as having the most beautiful, inspirational sunsets and sunrises, my work is influenced by my natural environment. .
What is so vastly important with ART, it’s Truth, is it is all in the Eye of the Beholder. My hope is that others will find a little bit of their own story when looking at my work.