With a background in computer graphics and marketing, I worked in the advertising/media industry in Sydney for many years, but now paint full time in my studio near Batemans Bay on the NSW South Coast.
My work is often described as abstract realism - I enjoy the challenge of employing abstract ideas to capture the essence of the subject, while at the same time, allowing the viewer to see elements of realism. I achieve this by concentrating on line, shape, texture and colour, using inks, acrylics, collage pieces, and pen and ink when I paint. My approach to painting is sometimes unconventional and I will happily use an array of tools in order to create the effect I'm looking for.
Influenced by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Fred Williams, John Olsen and Mark Rothko, I am an intuitive painter, and love the painting process in itself. I paint from my imagination, and for me this allows the painting to evolve. I often use inspiration from word associations and events and frequently have the title of the work in mind long before I start the painting.
And I like to emphasise controlled drama in my work.
My paintings are developed by using many paint layers and I'm particularly interested in how colour can inform my work, providing the visual concept I am seeking.
I enjoy experimenting and devising unusual painting techniques which allows me to push myself further with my work and to create surprisingly original results.
I have studied art with a number of South Coast and Canberra art teachers over the years which has allowed me to explore my techniques theoretically as well as visually.
I have had numerous joint and solo exhibitions and have won prizes for my art. My work is featured in private collections within Australia as well as internationally.