My work is primarily about the evolution of humankind as an animal and our impact on the natural world specifically in regard to all other sentient beings. The growing movement towards social justice, peace, and a truer sense of community in Western culture is undoubtedly linked to how we treat the most vulnerable and disadvantaged, regardless of species.  It is clear that this pursuit is hindered by the disconnection of our actions and motivations from our claimed values and belief systems. The perception that such a vast conscientious divide is justifiably shaped by forces beyond our control is surely driven in large part by consumerist culture and our complicit participation in it. This dynamic set of compulsions sharply contrasts with the primal instincts of other species which have remained largely unchanged over recorded history. I continue to be inspired by the way in which other animals exist autonomously, with behaviors driven almost entirely by necessity and survival. Despite their scientifically proven ability to feel emotions, they flourish in a capacity above greed, materialism, or vanity and do so without ever exhausting their resources. I am deeply unsettled by the incongruence of our two worlds. These dissonant approaches to life are never more evident than in our global exploitation of the earth as a resource, and it’s sentient beings as commodities and objects. Unlike our ancient ancestors, we no longer have to rely on animals for food, clothing, or shelter, and yet their oppression at this point in history is at an unrivaled level.
 
I explore color, texture, and surface manipulation in an attempt to achieve somewhat uncalculated results that cannot be drawn or painted by hand. This is an allusion to the beauty of nature, which despite humankind’s endless attempts, can never be replicated nor restored once it is destroyed. The animals and symbols rendered within these surfaces serve as reminders that we still have much to learn from our fellow inhabitants.


                                                                                                                                                                                                   
                                                                                                                                                                                                    Hollywood Indian