I am originally from Erie, Pennsylvania, and have called Florida home since 1994, eventually finding my artistic sanctuary in the vibrant community of DeLand. As a dedicated painter and sculptor, the Renaissance remains my favorite art period—though I don’t paint in that style myself, I deeply admire the mastery and timeless elegance of artists like Michelangelo, Raphael, and Da Vinci. I also have a great appreciation for surrealism, particularly through the boundless imagination of Salvador Dalí and contemporary artist Todd Schorr. There are countless artists whose work I admire, each inspiring me to explore new techniques and push the boundaries of my own creativity. My art reflects my deep connection to both the natural world and the realm of imagination, blending reality and fantasy to evoke a sense of wonder and nostalgia. I sometimes work in collections to guide my creative process, but I’m often overcome by the urge to explore new ways to capture the beauty around us. My overall body of work reflects this constant exploration.
In addition to my artistic pursuits, I hold a Master’s degree in Information Technology Management and have worked in IT for over 13 years. My background in technology has given me a unique perspective on problem-solving, precision, and innovation—elements that often find their way into my creative process.
Recently, as my daughter ventured off to college, I found myself diving even deeper into my craft, embracing this new chapter with renewed focus and energy. In early 2024, I took a bold step by founding ArtWorks DeLand—a creative hub where I work alongside a talented team of artists, fostering an environment of collaboration and inspiration. Local art has profoundly enriched both my life and our community, and through ArtWorks DeLand, I’m honored to contribute to that vibrant cultural tapestry. Through my art, I strive to connect with others, spark curiosity, and celebrate the transformative power of creativity.
Artist Statement
I predominantly paint and sculpt in two subject areas. My focus shifts between realist studies of Florida wildlife and landscape and surreal, storybook-style scenes that bend that same subject matter toward fantasy. Both start from direct observation and I often use my own reference photos. My more surreal work pushes my palette and composition until the scene begins to feel somewhat imagined rather than a copy of what I see.
I work primarily in oil although I dip into acrylic and watercolor from time to time. More recently, my oil paintings begin with an acrylic underpainting to build up interesting color and value complexity quickly. I finish these with several more layers of oil paint on top.
Examples of my Work
Oil on Canvas – 48″ x 18″
Available for purchase at ArtWorks DeLand
Contact me
Phone number (407) 430-5087