My work with photopaintings is initiated with a twelve step archivally processed black-and white fiber based print which I produce in my own darkroom. This is what I use as my “canvas.” I work with oils, acrylics, pastels and occasionally watercolors. I also, at times, incorporate sand, dust and hair in my images.

Generally, I begin with a vague notion of what I want to produce. However, more often than not, once I begin to paint, the process itself or the original image leads me or “tells” me where to go.

This is entirely an unconscious process where there is no time or space. It could be called a creative rush, when I move very quickly, almost urgently. I usually complete the piece as a very different form of the original image. I often work on several images during a set time frame. I may set aside the work, frequently look at it and do nothing until I feel a creative spike which urges me to completion.

The interpretation of art is ultimately influenced by an emotional response in the viewer. This is usually quite different in each individual. It has always fascinated me to observe what different people actually “see” in each piece of work; how they react to it.