journey of the white dog.
My voice as a contemporary, abstract, expressionist using mixed media is influenced by feelings and nature. A life-long artist, I love being in the state of flow from my subconscious through my spirit to the canvas. Painting the rhythm of life’s emotions; blemishes, vulnerabilities, joy, challenges, and the pursuit of beauty in every experience and the opportunities to continue life’s journey.
I am drawn to the layering of paint representing my emotions and imagination, each stroke is intentional as I tether the colors together in contemplative self-expression. As the story is unfolding, there are times when I peel back a layer, naturally exposing the raw emotion of color underneath. My hope is that you will be able to reflect and feel your self-reflection, self-expression, and emotions creating connection to your own storyline.
Just like in life we have unfinished stories, I purposely leave a small part of my canvas blank to represent the story that is yet to unfold, leaving it to the imagination of the viewer. This reminder provides space for each of us to reflect and lean into the stories and chapters that we have yet to write and uncover.
I achieved a fine art degree from Cardinal Stritch University and was guided by the teaching philosophy of Sr. Thomasita Fessler of “Nature is God’s art and art is man’s nature” and the reflective contemplation of Mark Rothko’s process.
I paint in my home studio outside of Madison, where I am joined by my white dog and studio manager, Smudgey, who is named after an artist’s smudge stick and the spiritual purification through meditative practice that a person travels in the state of healing. I use mixed media of acrylic paint, oil paint, and fabric where the layers, smudges, and smears come together with clarity.
