ARTIST'S STATEMENT

Well, I've never been fond of the idea of artist's statements since, in my view, art isn't supposed to be about the artist. But since many people expect artists to 'make statements,' I suppose shall have to make one.

Please don't expect me to make some so-called 'intellectual' rant against my country as seems popular among some so-called artists. I don't find mindless pessimism nor dreamy social utopianism to be intellectual, much less practical.

Don't expect to see me painting something cruel or offensive just to generate controversy or to provoke people to anger. Art is meant to elevate the human spirit, not to degrade it.

Don't expect me to brag, because I've seen real talent among many artists, and some artists are so talented that it's downright intimidating. That humbling experience is a challenge to work harder. Artistic ability is a gift that should be used judiciously or it will be lost.

Don't expect to see complaints about how hard I had it growing up. I love my folks, even if Hollywood keeps telling us we should be resentful and blame them for our personal shortcomings.

(My parents might be uh ... unusual, but no one else could take their place.)

As for inspiration, each of us can find some every day for our literary, visual or musical gratification if we just keep quiet and pay attention to the world and people around us. For example, many of my paintings begin with things found while just doing daily tasks; a snake in the garden; the sight of muskrat mounds in the bog along the highway; a red-headed woodpecker flying across the road; people in animated conversation; even the otherworldy reflections in a lake of a steel mill at night. Sometimes the sun hits a leaf just right, or the morning fog lays just so, or the sound of a bird catches the ear and brings to mind a day on the river, or someone you met long ago, and the combination of things results in a work of art. Anything you find along the way of life can be the inspiration for a really nice composition, which in turn can be used to share all of these discoveries and experiences with others.

SHOWS

Plantation Wildlife Art Festival, Thomasville, Georgia
Treasures of Nature Art Show & Sale, Overland Park, Kansas
Southern Illinois Wildlife Expo, Fairview Heights, Illinois
Washington, Missouri Fine Arts Show
Gateway East Artist's Guild Annual Shows
Alton Museum of Art & History Three-Person Show

AWARDS

Grumbacher Gold Medallion, GEAG Show
People's Choice, GEAG Annual Show
Small Game Award, Southern Illinois Wildlife Expo
Best Representation of Wildlife In Or Out Of Its Natural Habitat, GEAG Annual Show

If you would like to speak with me in person to discuss artwork or arrange for a review of my portfolio I can be reached via e-mail to arrange a consultation time. Please use the e-mail address below to contact me.

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