My painting practice begins with large areas of oil paint applied to a new canvas. Afterwards I will sand down the canvas surface and repeat the process with the intention of having various textures to inform the painting. Thus, a narrative begins to emerge with a history to hold the unknown structure. I tend to be an abstract expressionist painter. The inspiration comes from my love of nature and figurative drawing. As an avid gardener, I move around the garden and take note of the contrast, textures, shapes, and forms, as if creating a large painting. What I have learned in pursuing a career as a painter is to establish an active listening in myself, not to be afraid to be experimental and make changes.