My passion for art was inspired at a young age. As a child, I always remember sitting at my little desk making a picture. It seemed I often communicated visually. Whether it was in a Christmas card to family or a personal journal entry, there was always a drawing to be found. I remember thinking how my little creations would become alive as I made the final touches.
I was home schooled through most of my schooling years. It was during this time that my first art teacher gave me the initial inspiration to pursue my natural drive toward art. I have since studied at The American Academy of Art in Chicago, Marwen (a not for profit organization in which I am now an alumnus) and at The Palette and Chisel Academy of Fine Arts in Chicago. It was at the latter that I studied with many amazing artists to whom I credit my knowledge on how to see as a painter and am grateful for their generosity and encouragement. Thank you to my instructors along the way, Clayton J. Beck III, Scott Tallman Powers, Romel De La Torre, Diane Rath.
I am also inspired by many of the great masters, including Antonio Mancini, John Singer Sargent, Norman Rockwell and Richard Schmid to name a few.
Groups & Organizations:
The Palette & Chisel Academy of Fine Arts
Oil Painters of America
American Impressionists
Society
Oil Painters of America
Society of Master Impressionists
Plein Air Painters of Chicago
Marwen (Alumnus)
Exhibitions:
2007 Sunset Art Gallery, Society of Master Impressionists Amarillo, TX
2007 Whistle Pik Gallery, OPA National Juried Exhibition, Elaine & Peter Adams OPAM Award of Excellence Fredericksburg, TX
2007 Hilligoss Gallery, American Impressionists Society, Best of Show Chicago, IL
2006 The Palette and Chisel, Gold Medal Show, 2nd place, Chicago, IL
2006 The Palette and Chisel, 3 Artists From 3 Walks of Life, Chicago, IL
2006 Brazier Fine Art Gallery, OPA Regional Miniature Show, Richmond, VA
2006 Sunset Art Gallery, Society of Master Impressionists, Amarillo, TX
2006 Dana Gallery, OPA National Juried Exhibitions, Missoula, MT
2005 The Tavern Club, What Exactly is Plein Air Painting? PAPC-SW, Chicago, IL
2005 Marwen, 2 Years 2 Reflect, Solo Show, Chicago, IL
2005 Barnsite Arts Studio, Barns & Farms Nat. Juried Show, Kewaunee, WI
2005 Humbolt Pie CafÈ, PAPC Group Show, Chicago, IL
2005 The Palette & Chisel Academy, Plein Air Painters of Chicago, Chicago, IL