Metaphorically, my paintings explore relationships between environment, psyche, and one’s ability to rationalize.  Environment is characterized by any tangible force affecting an individual’s physical and/or conscious/unconscious self.  The monochromatic fields and grids depict this.  Psyche is represented by the lyrically ornate, complex black and white imagery.  These disparate elements attempt to develop a sense of harmony and poise.  Upon further examination, one can recognize that the environment is slightly off-kilter, positioning the psyche to seek balance.  By amassing and manipulating accessories of value (perceived or actual), a psychological and rational remedy is sought.  This might resemble the positioning weights on a scale … or how children of different sizes maneuver on a teeter-totter to achieve equilibrium.

Formally, my investigations focus on three primary concerns: subtleties of color, visual activity, and pareidolia (psychically charged imagery).  I attempt to optically animate each composition by combining these elements pictorially.  This effect varies from piece to piece, ranging from readily apparent to something quite subtle.  In some cases, a viewer may actually begin to lean slightly as a physiological response.

In the end, my paintings function visually from a distance as well as up close.  Each piece should be observed for a period of time, allowing for both the “psyche” and “environment” time to become dominant against the other.  This might take a bit of effort, but this activity will allow a dialogue to develop between the two.  Further, my intent is that the viewer will then assimilate these ideas in a sort of self-reflective practice (a mandala if you will).  By doing this, a new cognizant rationale may develop, allowing the viewer to navigate through his/her everyday environment with fresh insight and balance.