Process

I obtain my imagery through intuitive means. My intent is to bypass left brain operations in order to access imagery from the realm of dreams. Lately, the image of the mermaid has manifested in my work. For me, she is an apt metaphor for one who navigates between two worlds, symbolically uniting the conscious with the unconscious, the rational with the irrational. I’ve chosen to work in a representational manner, as I am naturally drawn to the figure and frequently use it as a poetic vehicle. I do not use models however, preferring to work from my imagination.

My technique involves scribbling and playing with the drawing materials, censoring nothing. Inevitably a figure or a gesture occurs (within the scribbling) which I find stirring. From this I develop a composition. I have begun to experiment with printmaking as a medium and am drawn to the monotype as it lends itself easily to innovation. I also enjoy the gradation of tone and sense of atmosphere which are possible with aquatint. Some of the printed images have been tinted with watercolor.

Each image seems to demand a certain medium of expression. By combining techniques I feel that I can extend the range of their expression. This facilitates a sort of dialogue between my intention and the unexpected surprises of texture and color inherent in the printmaking process.