Animals form an integral part of my life in rural Vermont, shaping much of my daily experience. Often, I observe them from a distance while standing on the porch or walking along wooded trails where creatures of all kinds inhabit the shared landscape. I listen to their calls, watch their movements, and witness how swiftly they retreat into the wild. Over time, many have become familiar, almost like quiet companions. Songbirds return annually to nest in the same spots; generations of deer, recognizing our peaceful presence, remain nearby. Curious bears forage the old apple trees with their cubs, while coyotes’ haunting howls resonate through the night, searching for mates or maintaining contact with their young. This mutual trust, an unspoken agreement to coexist without conflict, inspires me deeply—especially now, when such simplicity feels increasingly precious.

My current painting project centers on the theme of animals, aiming not for precise likenesses but for distilled forms that capture their essence and natural behaviors. Whether it’s a grouse nestled low to the ground, a bird in song, a playful flight of birds, or a wary crow surveying its surroundings, I seek to express these moments in simplified shapes. My technique involves painting, scraping, dissolving, sanding, and repainting layers to evoke softly worn textures. This process blurs the line between clear representation and subtle suggestion, dwelling in the space where perception meets memory. It is within this tension—the balance of contrasts and economy of detail—that I find the paintings come alive.

Birds and other animals serve as both subject and muse, providing rich opportunities for artistic exploration. The evolving layers and textures of my canvases mirror the complexity and fleeting beauty of the natural world, allowing me to manifest creativity through both form and process.