Finding Balance Series

ARTIST STATEMENT

I make process-driven, large-scale, non-representational works on paper to explore mindfulness, yoga and the body as it attempts to find balance in pose and practice. My process is a means to find balance using intention, chance and intuition. I use my sketches as a launching point to explore the body gesturally and determine where I will place my wet media. Intention begins with each piece on the floor, using a wet-on-wet technique and dropping ink, gouache and watercolor to create a pathway of color and forms. As water evaporates and the pigment shifts, chance often occurs as unexpected forms and pathways start to surface. I enhance and foster these forms and pathways using additive or subtractive measures. When the desired results have been achieved, I rotate the orientation of the painting in order to find the best balance. As I am thinking about the body finding balance in a pose, I am also thinking about finding balance within the composition. Using dry media such as soft pastels, colored pencils or charcoal, I lean on my intuition to choose areas where I can expand dimensionality and enhance implied textures.

In the end, my paintings turn into an enigma, a topographical or cosmic-like landscape that often resembles a universe or nebula. My works are a mindfulness means of exploring the relationship between chaos and balance. There is an exploration between relinquishing control and gaining control. Each piece is a reminder of my desire to ground myself, find inner peace and question the purpose of my existence in this world and universe.

Abstract CO 23-5.1
Mixed Media on paper on panel
2023-2024
Dimensions: 30” x 30”
Abstract CO 23-10
Mixed Media on paper on panel
2023-2024
Dimensions: 35” x 26”
Abstract CO 23-7
Mixed Media on paper on panel
2023-2024
Dimensions: 30” x 24”
Abstract 22-31
Mixed Media on paper on panel
2022-2024
Dimensions: 40” x 58”
Abstract 23-1
Mixed Media on paper on panel
2023-2024
Dimensions: 58” x 43”
Abstract 23-6
Mixed Media on paper on panel
2023-2024
Dimensions: 57” x 40”
Abstract 23-2
Mixed Media on paper on panel
2023-2024
Dimensions: 58” x 43”
Abstract 23-3
Mixed Media on paper on panel
2023-2024
Dimensions: 43” x 58”
Abstract 24-8
Mixed Media on paper on panel
2023-2024
Dimensions: 68” x 40” (each),
87” x 83” (combined)
Abstract CO 23-5.2
Mixed Media on paper on panel
2023-2024
Dimensions: 42” x 35”
Abstract 24-1
Mixed Media on paper on panel
2024
Dimensions: 80” x 43” (each), 80” x 139” (combined)

FINDING BALANCE
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Art Thesis Exhibition
Umbrella Gallery
Dallas, Texas
March 1 – April 14, 2024

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