In the zone

Devoted to the study of the pastel medium since 2005, my exploration and growth has been a fabulous journey. Many vacations were spent at master level workshops domestically and abroad while learning from some of the best pastel artists in the world.

An overwhelming need to seriously “mix up my art” came in 2018. Mixing mediums was the choice that called to me. The experience of making such a profound change in how I communicate as an artist felt …. scary, exciting, friendly, unfamiliar, raw, awkward and, at times, it left me uncertain on how to advance. But, isn’t that what growth is all about?

What exactly am I doing? Mixed media - acrylic paints and an assortment of papers and materials are collaged to the canvas or paper using soft gel or matte medium. It is a gooey process that can make any studio look like a disaster area while in the midst of creative development. But, there is that discovery phase when it all starts to become magical. This occurs after learning how different papers adhere and how the abundant layering of additional paint enhances the collage foundation. It was amazing to discover how cotton paper from magazines dating back to the mid 1800’s adheres to the canvas. The dance of decision as to how much of the collage remains and how much will be covered with paint happens quite naturally. It is all very mysterious and yet exhilarating.

I have not abandoned my pastel practice completely, although dry pastel is not particularly compatible with mixed media. Using my love of capturing local landscapes, my pastel paintings serve as an inspiration for creating my mixed media visions. This discovery has recharged my artistic soul at precisely the right moment and I welcome the metamorphosis.