Through photomontage, I create metaphorical statements about the nature of being and “place” and humankind’s symbiotic relationship with nature and their mutual impact on each other. “We are a part of, not apart from, the rest of nature.” Anil Seth.

 

My art involves collaging images of human figures and nature. I either photograph or draw the human figure in poses that express an emotion and energy that connect to forms I find in nature that inspire me. I deconstruct then reconstruct these images in an intuitive manner in Photoshop, focusing on reflecting their inherent energy while creating metaphors for states of being. I’m particularly intrigued by how the structure of the brain’s neural nets and the body’s circulatory system are reflected in nature’s structures, textures, and inner systems and how both exude and respond to energy in the world. Several trips to see Body Worlds in Chicago and Milwaukee further inspired this aspect of my work.

 

My life has been about exploring creativity and creative problem solving through creating and exhibiting my artwork nationally and internationally, including having works held in various collections, and teaching art and art history as adjunct professor over 20 years. I’ve advocated for the arts through my gallerist work in my own and other galleries, as well as through my ongoing curatorial work with an international organization’s vast art collection that includes lauded examples of early 20th century copies of the Masters. Learning about art and artists during my university studies in New York City that involved visiting artists’ studios and art museums solidified my interest in exploring artists’ connections to their cultures and environments impacted the courses I’ve taught. And my travels to Eastern and Western Europe continue to further enrich my research on the relationship between art and culture.