Artist Statement
The beauty of the outdoors, wildlife, and art have long been my passions. In the 1980’s, I attended a waterfowl carving demonstration that inspired me to join a local carving club to develop my techniques. To create the most authentic pieces, I researched habitats and elements of anatomy, and began winning ribbons in regional and national carving competitions. I took up photography as part of my wildlife research, using my photography as inspiration and a reference point to personalize each piece. To Further hone my techniques, I often sought critiques for judges and world class carvers. Replicating the perfection of wildlife of challenging, but I was motivated to get others to “see” familiar wildlife in ways the hadn’t really seen. Introducing young children to wildlife art in another way I share my love and knowledge of art.
Over time as I've developed my artist style, I’ve explored many mediums. I’ve tried watercolor, which I find challenging and intriguing. Influenced by a fellow artist, I discovered the enjoyment of abstract art, which is a more freeing experience than I’m used to. My interest in scratchboard was derived initially from the enjoyment of working with pen and ink. Scratchboard is the reverse of pen and ink—adding in the lights instead of the darks—and must be planned out. Slight corrections can be made along the way to modify a piece, but you have to know where you are going. It’s a very old technique, exacting and time-consuming. Overall, I enjoy the process of learning as I create art—learning about the subjects, design and mediums of my artwork.
Over time as I've developed my artist style, I’ve explored many mediums. I’ve tried watercolor, which I find challenging and intriguing. Influenced by a fellow artist, I discovered the enjoyment of abstract art, which is a more freeing experience than I’m used to. My interest in scratchboard was derived initially from the enjoyment of working with pen and ink. Scratchboard is the reverse of pen and ink—adding in the lights instead of the darks—and must be planned out. Slight corrections can be made along the way to modify a piece, but you have to know where you are going. It’s a very old technique, exacting and time-consuming. Overall, I enjoy the process of learning as I create art—learning about the subjects, design and mediums of my artwork.
Active Associations
American Plains Artist - Signature Member
Association of Nebraska Art Clubs
Box Butte Art Society
Central Flyway Decoy Collector and Carvers Club
International Association of Scratchboard Artists
North Platte Valley Artist Guild
Nebraska State/Federal Ducks Stamp - Judge
Platte Valley Art Guild
Southeastern Wyoming Art Association
Association of Nebraska Art Clubs
Box Butte Art Society
Central Flyway Decoy Collector and Carvers Club
International Association of Scratchboard Artists
North Platte Valley Artist Guild
Nebraska State/Federal Ducks Stamp - Judge
Platte Valley Art Guild
Southeastern Wyoming Art Association
Website by: Scott Samson