Artist Statement
I look to those in my life as sources of inspiration. My children, wife and animals are all brought into my work because they carry me along in the process of making my artwork. This is a long process in which I build a maquette, then model the piece to full size in clay, working form and texture until fully satisfied. Over this I layer pigmented resins and fiberglass. Once the clay is removed, color becomes an important part of the piece and I electrify it by installing custom made neon tubes into the interior of the sculpture. The texture, originally cut into the clay, breaks up the light and becomes a text which the viewer is invited to read. The highly polished smooth exterior is meant to contrast the interior inscriptions as an expression of the contrast of the inner life and the outer self.
I enjoy overcoming the technical problems of bringing a concept to fruition. The transparency of fiberglass generates questions of solidity, so I work to balance the integrity of the form with the intensity of the light and color. I find excitement in making color pulsate and associate that color with the soul. I fabricate the components that give the sculpture structural strength, and allow me to challenge gravity. In some cases, the pieces must be able to come apart for the installation of light, and these seams I gracefully integrate into the form. I invite viewers to bring their own interpretations to the experience of seeing my work. I strive to always be passionate about my own process, and to make something of lasting value.