This series of paintings is inspired by a snowy winter family hike in Pilot Mountain State Park in North Carolina. Pilot Mountain was historically used as a navigational landmark by the area’s first inhabitants, who named it “Jomeokee” or “great guide.” During our hike I was struck by the contrast between the stark lines of the trees against the softer shapes of rock, patches of snow, and sky, so I took some photos as we walked. These photos were a jumping off point for this series, and I enjoyed the challenge of finding a balance between representation and abstraction.

What it feels like to be outside… sun on your face, wind on your cheeks, the sound of leaves underfoot, birdsong in the air… and the myriad effects of light and color on the land- scape… a breath of fresh air.

I love the outdoors and am fascinated with the natural world. This series of paintings is inspired by the strength of nature and the power of the outdoors.

I love painting outside. There is something magical about feeling the sun on your face, a cool breeze on your arm, and the sounds and smells of the outdoors while observing the shapes and colors of the landscape. Plus I enjoy the challenge of painting an ever-changing scene as the light changes and the wind moves clouds.

Plein Air painting, or translated from French, simply painting outside, was popularized by the 19th century Impressionists and made possible by advances in painting technology such as paint in tubes. Before this, artists ground their paint by hand.

Painting and drawing from life are an important part of my practice as an artist. Observing the effects of light on color and shape, and translating that into paint keeps my eyes and hand sharp. These images work themselves into my abstract pieces as well – a memory of a particular color or shadow or shape – all these elements play into my abstract paintings.

In these artworks, I’m exploring abstraction and representation together for some playful paintings full of color and fresh energy.