Creating watercolors in this mixed media format is an easy, flowing, in the moment expression. I use various techniques which I briefly describe below. Some of the paintings shown are available for purchase and others are part of my permanent collection. I like to start with a general theme as a jumping off point and then let my imagination wander.

The inspiration for some of my watercolors comes from my travels.  I observe my photographs and compile an imaginative replica of a place or event..  My paintings are created not only from the actual paint and paper but also my feelings as I  experienced these places.  A rough pencil sketch comes from my imagination as I use the photographs for reference.  Normally, I remove people, rearrange plants and create new furniture to fit the mood.

Another method I use to create these pieces begins with a drawing directly on the paper using a lightfast, archival quality pigment ink marker. The subjects, first created from a rough marker sketch, range from conceptualized realism to whimsical "energy-scapes." The application of watercolor follows.

I use is a wet application method for yet another technique. Clear water is painted directly on the cold press paper with paint colors then introduced into the puddled water. Choice of color and strategic sloping of the wet page will produce an effect which will add to the texture and layering of the next step. After the page is thoroughly dry, I revisit it with the pigment ink marker and superimpose perceived designs and organic images which the color allows me to envision.

All original watercolors are produced using Dr. Philip Martin's Hydrus Fine Art Watercolors. Paper is acid free, heavy weight Strathmore Watercolor cold press stock. Most of the works displayed are 11" x 15" or 13" x 17" before matting and fit a 12" x 16" or 16" x 20" mat. All are titled and single matted, secured with acid-free, non-permanent, non-staining artist tape, ready for framing.

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