statement

Drawing is the basis of all my art from charcoal, to pastels, to oil painting. It is the foundation, which ultimately pulls every piece of the puzzle together.

"Necrosis", like much of my artwork, took on a life of its own as I drew it. I started out with a concept that began to solidify itself in a series of photographs. In much of my art, I depict things that do not or cannot exist in reality. Therefore, I find the use of photography and Photoshop to be beneficial, but not the ultimate solution. Even after the photos are shot and the editing process is finished, I pull from my imagination and objects in life to develop my image more thoroughly. There is no greater tool at our disposal than that of the imagination.

This drawing in particular is a modern interpretation of a classical Vanitas. The theme of this piece serves as an omen, forewarning the viewer of what is to come. It aides as a reminder to invest oneself in things that are lasting beyond one's ephemeral life.

There is a strong sense of contrast in all of my work. Not only do I demonstrate it literally, with lighter images appearing out of a dark background, but figuratively as well with opposing objects. Through the use of juxtaposition, I parallel the girl's youth and beauty with antiquated worn objects; her extravagance, with ominous decay. Revealing that in life, the pursuit of materialistic gains are ultimately all in vain.

bio

born: 1987, New Jersey

selected awards/honors

Finalist People & Figures Challenge, International Artist Magazine April/May 2013
Finalist, ARC International Salon, 2013
Clara Thomson Memorial Award, The Salmagundi Club, 2010

selected publications

Direct Art 20, 2013

selected group shows

The Big Gamble, Rehs Gallery, NY, NY, 2013
New Season New Works, Mainstreet Galleries, Kingston, PA, 2012
Annual Members Exhibition, Salmagundi Art Club, NY, NY, 2011
Capturing Realism, Pauly Freidman Art Gallery, Dallas, PA, 2011