Having no formal training in the medium, I have discovered through the "trial and error" method of learning that the process of painting in watercolor itself is a tremendous teacher.  It lets you know quickly what can and cannot be accomplished.  But fortunately  with perseverance and patience the rewards can be very satisfying.  

    Having had the opportunity to travel extensively, I have been greatly influenced by the Third World. The Indian cultures of Central and South America have offered much inspiration. The brilliant colors of Guatemala, Peru and Ecuador often find their way way into some of my paintings.  Pure, raw and vivid color...whether in a weaving, a piece of fabric or painting have the ability to affect mood. For me, it is uplifting and a joy to paint.

 

   
  Along with color, architectural design has fascinated me...particularly ruins. Whether they be Aztec, Mayan, Inca, Greek or Roman...they are all alluring from an artist's perspective. Ancient cultures seemed to endow their structures with a sense of the sacred.  The fabulous masonry of an Inca wall or the towering columns of the Parthenon indicate a vision that difficult to duplicate in today's world. If I can capture a fragment of that in my paintings then I feel I have succeeded.

  In many ways I still feel like I am in my infancy with my watercolors. I feel like I can learn from every experience.  Subjects retain their freshness. I am not limited by dogma and am willing to try anything.  (This is evident by the wide variety of subjects...everything from portraits to abstract design)

  I try to bring the lessons that I learn from painting into my "everyday life". Increased concentration and powers of observation as well as an appreciation of color and design are some of the benefits. But the bottom line is to have fun, enjoy the process and learn to see beauty everywhere.