I make paintings to capture the spirit of a thing, engaging memory, sensation, and emotion to create abstract landscapes. Drawing inspiration from the woods and my garden, imagery of decay and regrowth sparks reflection. I’m drawn to earthy, fleshy textures–dirt, plants, bark, decomposing matter, insects, light, water. My process is intuitive and materially driven. Compositions unveil as I manipulate the paint, moving and removing strokes until I find forms, welcoming surprise and loss as I go. Sweeping, thin brushstrokes coalesce to vaguely suggest forms. Gesture and texture take precedence over rendering–the effect of the brushstrokes themselves guides the painting. Subtle moments of melding marks and overlapping values construct the final work, forming a composition that’s suggestive, but welcoming of contemplation.