Working within the traditional subject of portraiture paired with abstract expressionistic doctrines, my artwork focuses on both capturing the essence of a sitter, while also paying attention to the tactility of a paintings surface. In my paintings, I address the versatility of paint through various layers of diverse paint viscosity and handling. The canvas is a three dimensional object and the surface should receive as much attention as the texture and surface of a sculpture should. Playing with sheen and the consistency of paint, I build a surface that is rhythmical and untamed, like a landscape to the touch.

 

     In every painting, I choose the appropriate brushstroke and application, for it can express feeling similar to the way fonts can express the words they depict. I use colors, paint application, and hues to create an energy and emotion to help generalize and depict the deeper notions and parables behind the pieces. Though lacking any sort of real space or interaction these paintings are very narrative. The figure is arranged within a compositional design; the limbs and parts on the body are simplified to just shapes within an architectural layout. The ultimate goal is to reach a harmonious balance between the compositional elements of design and physicality with the narrative emotional qualities of figure, brushstroke and color.