5.20.19

I've been quite obsessed with the idea of zero waste and low-impact living recently. Researching techniques and instilling changes in my life have been important, and I naturally think of how this can impact my art practices. This has certainly been a constant, and something I battle with being a painter. I love the medium, but working with exclusively natural or upcycled materials would ring closer to the truth of my messaging. Idealism seems to find its way in, and as much as I want to reject it, it acts as a compass. Is it my morality coming through, or is it not wanting to feel hypocritical? Being a purist isn't very practical, yet I still want to push myself. For the time-being, I can explore some new methods alongside my painting and maybe I'll fall in love with it. I can't be so hard on myself because change doesn't happen overnight, and at least I'm aware of what I could improve on. Mixing found or natural materials with traditional art materials is another good starting point. While at MIAD, I experimented quite a bit and wasn't terribly happy with the final products. I found the works made from trash looked like trash. Some of the materials could have been distilled and integrated to a deeper degree. Playing until I achieve a particular approach I'm happy with, that feels unique to me might take a few stabs.

9.18.18

As someone who cares deeply about the ecological well-being of the earth, I think it's important to not forget about indigenous cultures. They were the original stewards of the land and practiced effective land management. As I have been studying permaculture and learning of it's history, I recognize many of the ideas are ancient natural wisdom. Permaculture is a guide for navigating our current global situation with a high population which is demanding of resources. The value of Native American knowledge is one that should be studied as we progress with finding solutions for the collective problems of our planet. Permaculture is interdisciplinary, and the history of the word only runs back to the 1970's. It's a need that grew out of western colonization, and as a byproduct, is also western in it's origins. I am not by any means trying to knock it, only make sure that credit is given where it's due.

This research ties into my work because my focus is shifted towards indigenous cultures and learning the science of ecology. It's inspiring me to ponder my role as an artist and how I can't put myself into a box of just being that. I feel that creating art is not always the most efficient expression of information I want to share. As an artist, I have come across this realization before. At another peak in my devotion towards environmentalism, I concluded that there were other methods for getting my message out there, particularly writing. If I'm unable to reach a certain population through my artwork, then perhaps my writings on the subject will find it's way. The two techniques can work in tandem, supporting each other. I hope to work through the tangible; by creating food and shelter, not through words and bullets. I believe that collectively, we need to be internalizing the information already out in the world and ACTING.

7.11.18

I was browsing my old albums, and found this photo I took back in 2010 in Portland. I couldn't believe how much junk had collected underneath the bridge! It made for a poetic image, and a statement at least.

I've been mulling over the importance of content and concept behind artwork. But by default, art has meaning imbued it, whether the artist is trying or not. The deep history of humans creating things, and the myriad of reasons behind it contribute to this idea. Although I like the concept of "art for art's sake", and create that way myself, I also want to push the viewer-- to be uncomfortable, be provoked, or be inspired to change their habits. I wonder if my visual nudge is more subtle than I would like in some pieces. The work should speak for itself and not need to rely on the artist statement.

I'm inspired by artists who make their work solely from reclaimed materials. Here are some examples of recycled art. At times I struggle with my chosen traditional mediums, and feel that I should push myself to use found objects to fully embody practicing what I preach. I tell myself that I do not need to be a purest, and that my visual messaging stands on its own. Aesthetically, I prefer the mediums I use because achieving fine details is important to me. Maybe one day I will challenge myself to work with small pieces of materials or papers to "paint" details. Until now, I will continue exploring my methods until I feel compelled enough to transition into something else.

2.13.18

I'm excited to announce that I have a art show scheduled for August 2018, at Manna Cafe! It will be up the entire month, and the work will be for sale.

It's located at 611 N Sherman Ave, Madison, WI 53704

2.7.18

I'm proud to present part of my studio. I am back in full creation mode after being starved of my art! :D

3.3.16
I created a Redbubble account a few weeks ago and have been very pleasantly surprised. This particular piece has been a huge hit, and I've been making sales internationally! It's available as an iPhone case, t-shirts, mugs, throw pillows, tote bags, art prints, and a whole lot of other things.

Check it out here

2.15.16
To purchase work, check out Society6: here