The Art Conversations
"Sail", chalk pastel on paper, 2017
Summer, 2022
Not only can art be a comforting source of solace, but it can also serve as an invigorating reminder that perspective can make a world of difference. Each season, I like to take a little time to reflect on the stories that have brought me to where I am and the artworks they have inspired. It is in recognizing and reclaiming the worth of these moments that I appreciate my journey over time. I find art to be both deeply personal and also a gift worth sharing. Within my Art Conversations, please enjoy my tales and motivations, as well as a bit about what inspired my choice and process of creative expression. |
"Here I Am"
acrylic on canvas board, 2015 ABOUT THE STORY
I've always marveled at the squawking, rustling, frenzy of a flock of birds and wondered what they were chatting on about. Their urgent activity seems so busy and social as they bustle about, pecking, flapping, moving, and posturing for position. What about those loners, though? What are they after? Is the sequestered bird longing for peace and alone time in its secluded cove, or is it aching for a companion? Is the lone soaring bird cautiously scouting, hunting for prey, or maybe it's just seeking someone too? One day at the ocean, I sat alone and pondered this as I watched this pair. I couldn't decide which one called out, but I imagined it must have translated to "Here I Am". ABOUT THE PROCESS The lilting waves, deep tones, serene strokes, and heavy ombre of the sky relive the quiet serenity of this pensive moment. |
"Be All Right"
acrylic on canvas, 2019 ABOUT THE STORY In this vibrant nod to Bob Marley, these three little birds remind you to take it easy, be positive, and go with the flow. "Don't worry about a thing... `cuz every little thing's gonna be all right." ("Three Little Birds," Bob Marley & the Wailers). You owe it to yourself to let go of excess worry before it gets the best of you! ABOUT THE PROCESS This was a fun piece to create. I thoroughly enjoyed slapping the bright, tropical colors across the canvas, using sweeping strokes to create the birds' fat little bellies and breezy feathers. The mellow vibe pays homage to my island roots. 
"The Power of Speech"
acrylic on paper, 2020 ABOUT THE STORY We all know how intense 2020 was. The world seemed to be at its breaking point, dangling on the very edge of disaster. Hot summer nights, with smoke and fire in the streets, while multitudes dared to speak up for what they believed. As the wrongs of the accepted world were exposed, the power of speech could incite healing or hatred at a moment's notice... Especially potent at an already volatile time was the creeping realization that the literal breath of speech could actually kill, as a global pandemic swept across the earth. But for many, the risk was worth it-- it was the chance to finally speak out against injustices too long tolerated. This piece was one of the only pieces I painted in 2020-- I think I was in a state of shock witnessing and experiencing it all. I had also happened to be going through life events that would have been turbulent in any time. The combination of these personal struggles and world events was crippling to me, but like the painting's subject, I decided enough was enough-- it was time to fight through the pain if it could eventually bring healing. The subject is a lovely black woman who might have been otherwise enjoying a summer event, but instead wears a weary face of pain and disbelief as she navigates the volatile surroundings. Though masks are now commonplace, it was very strange for me at the time to paint a mask over a subject's face. Let's just pause and acknowledge that scary time of trauma and triumph-- we lived through that time and are survivors in the lingering aftermath. ABOUT THE PROCESS The lighting of the piece is particularly effective. The blank paper is flooded with shades of gut-wrenching red, depicting rage, determination of spirit, and the dark confusion of civil protests degraded into anarchy. Notable are the peeks of white through the red paint portraying fire rising in the distance, hints of commotion in the background, or possibly a chance of hope. |
"Island Gal"
acrylic on canvas paper, 2010 ABOUT THE STORY
Go ahead, Carribean Gyal--never be ashamed to love life! ABOUT THE PROCESS One of my favorite things about this piece is the shading, which creates the soft textures of the subject's feathery flowing garment and her bright yellow accessories. They contrast beautifully against her sleek leather bag strap and crisply painted beach ball. Small elegant details like her jewelry, laces, and shades make her twice as cool in this summer scene. 
"The Pickup"
oil pastel on paper, 2009 ABOUT THE STORY
I had to include this fun, flirty piece about a gal and a guy, picking each other up on a late summer afternoon. Her crush has just asked for her help on an errand (which he quite probably could have managed himself!). She is happy to oblige as the two set off into the sunset together, embarking on new possibilities. (Based on true events!) ABOUT THE PROCESS Some things I love about oil pastels are their richness of tone, creamy texture, and ease of use. While still deeply reveling in the feeling and memory of these events, the use of oil pastels allowed me to quickly capture the moment in vivid color-- the glossy deep reds and cool denim, the wistful hue of the afternoon sky, the glowing golds and greens of the countryside. Even all these years later, I can still feel what I felt then when I view this piece. 
"June"
acrylic on colored canvas paper, 2017 ABOUT THE STORY
Weddings and blossoms and soft, swaying breezes, a fairy-tale summer dress on a cool green lawn. The dress being on a hanger represents the anticipation of it all, or the satisfaction of a sweet, lingering memory. ABOUT THE PROCESS June is fresh and green-- late spring and early summer in its tender, delicate stages. The color of the green paper was a perfect backdrop to the simple white strokes of the painting. Simplicity was key when creating this lovely, softly glowing moment of beauty. |
