The true artist does not copy like the one eye camera that lies and distorts and flattens images. I try to followthe most important principle of subordination, to select and emphasize the sensitive and important elements for the viewer to focus on, that hopefully adds grace or soul and a feeling of spontaneous life.

I paint using many of the techniques of the old masters, just as in the 17th century. I usemediums and amber and oil painting varnishes based on lost Flemish polymerized recipes that have recently been rediscovered. These are the same close recipes used by Rubens, Van Dyke, Rembrandt and most painters of that time. These mediums allow for unsurpassed drawing in paint and speed of application. The luminosity of color and optical effects equal the quality of the old masters techniques, which I find are far superior to present day commercial products. I also grind my pigments for much of my
portrait and studio work.
 

I earned a BFA in painting from Kent State University where I was honored as “ best draftsman.” I went on to study for two years at the Art Students League of NY with Frank Mason , Everett Raymond Kinstler and Ivan Olinsky— all noted members of the National Academy. I also studied landscape painting in Vermont and Maine with Frank Mason for nine months.
 

I am a Life Member of the Art Students League, Signature Member of Akron Society of Artists, Member of Oil Painters of America and The Portrait Society of America. I have been elected as a member of the Salgamundi and National Arts clubs. I am a member, and am represented online by the Ohio Plein Air Society. In addition I am a member of The Cuyahoga Valley Art Center where I have been an instructor of portrait and landscape painting for over 30 years. I also teach workshops and do demonstrations.

Awards: Recent honors include two medals won at Cincinnati Viewpoint national shows. First Place, Second place, Honorable Mentions, and “Quick Draw” awards at Ohio Plein Air Society (OPAS) competitions; and Best of Show at the Akron Society of Artists 75th anniversary show. I also won Best of Show at the Canton Art Museumregional Combination show, and an Honorable Mention at the Grand Exhibition National Show.

My paintings have been accepted at the Butler Museum’s National and Regional shows. I was accepted in group shows: Art for the Parks, Kent state University, the Akron Art Museum, Rief (State Capital) Gallery and multiple times in the National Arts Club,
Salmagundi Club and Springfield Museum of Art.