Artist Viewpoint:

One of the biggest influences of my life as an artist was my step-grandfather Walter Farndon, a National Academy of Design member.

Although he passed away when I was 7, and he 91 (He painted his last large canvas at 89!), He left a large legacy. My parents faithfully kept the big body of work all through the years. So I would awaken as a child, looking at masterful oil paintings. An old heaping full hay wagon rolling back to the barn. Impressionistic, yet the rich brushstrokes, color harmonies, clamored with life. As a mature artist I still seek this goal of fresh aliveness, an electric spark from nature, not a bland recital. The Family by the 1990’s made contact with the Vose Galleries, with the help of Gayle Crites, Bill Moe, and Michael Lynch. The Vose has been at the heart of Boston (238 Newbury St.) for 165 years, handling some of our nation’s best artist. They can be reached at www.vosegalleries.com They have put together 3 major shows of his work so far.

Another important step for me, was learning to paint directly from life.

Sounds Simple. (well maybe for you). Yet it was only when I arrived at the Denver Art Student League, did I find a knowledgeable and Patient teacher like Mark Daily. With their help, I finally found the steps and courage to consistently paint outside.

It has been over 15 years that I have hiked the mountains, stood in river marshes, or try to look inconspicuous, while standing in front of the walkway to the Tea house restaurant. Just 6 foot me, my huge white umbrella, French easel, with it’s foldout box, and large colorful canvas. Sometimes painting outdoors can be a spectator sport.

I heard it said that nature is the best teacher. The rest, all the design and art strategies, ( currently being taught to me by the most talented teacher I have had: Molly Davis.) are there for just this purpose; Remake this beautiful nature all around us into a personal unique way of seeing it, while retaining

It’s essential nature. It is to speak a new language spoken only by one, but understood by all. It has been my pleasure to speak my visual voice to you.