My early visual sensitivities were shaped in a setting defined by rolling hills, lazy meandering creeks, endless horizons, spacious skies, patchwork fields, bovine speckled pastures, and dynamic sunsets, in a rural Nebraska context. From the very beginning I was immersed in the land with its distinct seasons, colors, textures, and agrarian cycles. Every unfolding day was a visual delight.

A passion for biblical studies and archaeology has also contributed to the fabric of my being. These pursuits have given me insight into the dynamic layers of history, cultures and the scriptures. Digging into the soil and landscape of the Biblical narrative, in its original context in Israel, is the foundation for my current inspirations and artistic expressions.

Even though I have worked in various other media’s, encaustic wax best suits what I am trying to convey in my most recent artistic endeavors. Encaustic and archaeology have a great deal in common in which one layer, be it dirt or wax, builds upon another. And the relationships tell an intriguing story. Furthermore, the media of “encaustic” dates back to the biblical era that I find so fascinating.

The genesis of each creation is intentional in terms of the empirical and related Biblical themes. However, it is a contemplative process somewhat akin to the creation of the ancient Byzantine “icons”.  Each piece is a personal spiritual journey in its own rite.

The concept of “vessel”, referred to as “tebah” in the Hebrew Scriptures, is threaded throughout many of my pieces. Whether literal or figurative, a vessel encases, protects and insures survival. Images from the Creation narrative, Noah’s ark, Jonah’s whale, Moses’ basket, Ezra’s scroll and the DSS Qumran caves reflect this theme. Other sources of inspiration include metaphorical images from the Psalms and New Testament parables.