How long have you been creating?

Since I was able to pick up a crayon and scribble. (I don't know if that's original but it's true.)

What is your media of choice?

Pastel and charcoal aremy current focus. My abstract/textured paintings are mostly done in acrylics but I'd like to do more in oil.

I'm also an avid amateur photographer and I'm experimenting with encaustic painting.

What are your motivations for creating?

It's a compulsion. I really, really love the process of creating a painting. Especially when things are "clicking" (laughing). The process of laying out a composition, playing with color, shadow and light and finding a solution to a challenge that materializes.

It's a constant learning experience. It helps me to see differently.

Figuring out harmony between line, color, depth; developing the images through the sensual movements of marking and blending...

My motivation for creating my current series is observing the beauty in dying flowers, leaves... most of what you'd find in a garden. I have a need to capture them before they turn to dust.

What other artists or movements inform your work?

Honestly, a lot of artists and movements affect me. But I'll name a few well known - Georgia O'Keefe, Marc Chagall, Paul Klee.

And music definitely influences my work.

What do you find visually stimulating right now?

Nature in its decaying moments.

What's the last book you read?

Obsessive Genius by Barbara Goldsmith. It's a fascinating book about Marie Curie. I managed to finish it while waiting in the jury room when summoned for jury duty.

Tell us about some of your artistic goals for 2006.

To finish a series I have started called "Leaves With Holes." I've also started a series called "Rotting Fruit" but I won't finish that until early next year.

What would you like your fellow EBSQ artists and our collectors to know about you and/or your work?

As far as my work is concerned - I put 100% into it and I'm always pushing myself to get better.

Regarding me - I want to have a peaceful, laugh-filled life (no unneccessary drama, thank you). I truly enjoy the community at EBSQ and its supportive, encouraging atmosphere. I just want to say thank you and thanks for all the laughter.