Statement

Can art change the world?

This is a question that I have grappled with often, even before I started making art. In the current political climate where we face a multitude of looming crisis, often described as a meta-crisis, this question is more relevant than ever. The underlying issues that brought us here must be explored to find solutions to the many potential catastrophes that we face.

But do people really want to do this?

How can people be awakened so that they want to face what is very difficult to accept? This requires both an inner exploration as well as being willing to truly see what is taking place around us. I strive to create pleasing aesthetics, as well as art that provokes thought and transforms the viewer.

The role of art and beauty in society can be traced back to our very beginning as humans. Beauty can be a transformative vehicle to open people’s hearts and minds, offer moments to connect with themselves and others, while broadening their view of the world around them. It can be a catalyst for compassion, kindness and caring. We have all had those moments of connection while engulfed with beauty.

In order to face some of the most difficult issues that we are encountering I often use an approach to first draw the viewer in with beauty and then allow them, upon a closer look, to see what is in some cases almost hidden in the art or sometimes fairly obvious upon a closer look. This is a way to create connection upon first glance with the beauty of the art in hopes of creating a level of interest and perhaps even trust. And then, there is the work where my hope is that the beauty is all the connection needed.