My figurative paintings are abstracted representational works of art done with acrylic paint on a stretched and sealed canvas. I apply each painting with a layer of gesso surface, letting deep brush strokes show underneath the surface. I then proceed to my under painting and final layers, using layered-patterned surfaces to represent what is beneath the surface. Most of my work is related to the idea of patterns: patterns of thought, applied patterns which emerge through the process of making a painting. This to me is an important dimension, using texture to lift the painting from the plane of flatness. My inspirations come from images of my two daughters or my own childhood memories. I keep active sketchbooks and each painting is initially inspired by a rough sketch. My abstracted landscapes are inspired by the visual richness of my environment. Fortunate to live in the northwest, I draw from the nature surrounding me. The lakes, streams, beaches and tributaries of nearby landscapes are what engulf my sence of creativity. I prepare the surface the same as my figurative paintings. My landscapes are primarily done in oil and contain many colored glazed layers. Throughout the creative process I like to keep things simple-accepting them for what they are. I am not interested in making pretty paintings-I find that these are best left for others. I am focused instead on the process of making a painting, allowing this process to express its nature with ease and spontaneity. A native Oregonian, I attended North Salem High School and graduated from Oregon State University as an art major where I studied with great instructors such as, Clint Brown, Demetrios Jameson, Nelson Sandgren and Allen Wong. I am an active member and past secretary for Artists in Action, a local non-profit art group. A member of Watercolor Society of Oregon and Northwest Watercolor Society, my work has been exhibited in numerous juried shows and professional organizations winning numerous awards.