I create these small format paintings using a variety of processes including watercolor, acrylic, egg tempera and gold leaf.

Many of the paintings are "mixed media." This means I start with watercolor--layers and layers of color until I get it right. Then I start adding graphite (liquid or solid), pigment powder, pastel, colored pencil and charcoal. Any art supplies in my studio are fair game when I'm working (as long as they are high quality and archival)! These paintings are done on clay-coated panels that also allow me to scratch or burnish away the pigment to create highlights.

Egg tempera is a painting process that uses egg yolk to bind pigments. I make the paints by mixing finely ground pigments, water and egg yolks donated by my flock of hens. By applying the paint in many multiple thin layers, I can build up lush, rich colors and very fine detail. 24k gold leaf is applied to a traditional clay bole ground and then burnished to a shine or to incorporate patterns. Composition gold leaf (a faux gold leaf) is applied using an oil size and varnished to prevent tarnishing.

I am accepting commissions for paintings. Please contact me or a gallery representative for more information.

click any of the images at left to enlarge