Why do I Paint?

I paint because I’ve always loved to—but it isn’t a frivolous activity. I am propelled by a deep, enduring interest in why we are here, why the world is so beautiful and so terrible, and in our limited understanding, so fleeting.

I am compelled to capture those rare moments of illumination, in which everything appears to be part of a circle, and goes round exquisitely and  seamlessly in a wondrous dance.

Balancing a Bubble 6 3/4″ x 6 3/4″ silver leaf, inks on a panel

Fishing 8 1/2″ x 8 1/2″ silver leaf, inks on a panel

The Dragon House 6″ x 6″ silver leaf, inks on a panel

Above a Submerged Village 16 1/2″ x 17 1/2″ carot gold, silver leaf, inks on a panel

Six Pelicans 6 1/4″ x 17″ silver leaf, inks on a panel

So many things to celebrate; so many things to mourn. I lean toward celebration. My work always comes back to the magic and beauty of the natural world; the mysteries of existence; the power of imagination; the joy of creativity.

Intrepid Voyager 6″ x 8 3/4″ silver leaf, inks on a panel

I love to explore the layers of generations overlapping in strata of feelings, endeavor, earth and rock. The unspoken but obvious love and care that must spin out and crystallize somewhere.

To the Early Morning Market 7″ x 24″ silver leaf, inks on a panel

Some of my paintings are fairly large, but many of my works are of a small and intimate size. I use a range of mixed media materials, including  22 carat gold and silver leaf, acrylic inks, and coloured gessoes.

I work on terra cotta tile, prepared board, heavy acid-free paper, and Japanese paper. The training I was privileged to receive in London, England as a calligrapher and gilder has also been of great value, giving me a steady hand, an eye for detail, and a love of pattern and design. This, along with the joy, wonder and delight of creativity inspires the work I do.

An Exotic Garden 17″ x 24″ carat gold, silver leaf, inks on a panel

The Rabbit House 8 1/2″ x 8 3/4″ carat gold, silver leaf, inks on a panel

If you’re interested in viewing more of my paintings, visit one of the galleries I’ve partnered with or come to my home in Hamilton, Ontario.