My images and ideas are a mystery to me and I try to make some sense of them through my artwork. The "Window Series" started in 1983 and is the longest running series I have worked on. In this series the structure of the window is used as a metaphor to express my life experiences and creativity. The parts of the window are explored, exaggerated, and exposed; it's like taking apart a puzzle and rearranging it.
In this body of artwork I have chosen simple colors and shapes in keeping with the simplicity of the construction of the window. When I view the window I take into consideration the entire composition of the window, philosophy, composition, construction etc. It is from here I form my visual language. When I see the window, I see the glass, wood, metal, curtains, shades, colors, inside, outside, trees, animals, sky, furniture, people, mist, fog, rain, reflections, light, sun, moon, etc. The combinations of subjects that can be associated with this structure are endless.
I have chosen paper and pastel for most of these artworks. These materials give me versatility. The first stage of these artworks is more drawing than painting. I also use rags, paper, wood, razor blades, oils, and turpentine to blend colors. These materials are also used to create texture or remove it. The lines, shapes, smudges, sharp edges, uneven edges are all done purposely to create a raw look.
Themes vary some are a reflection of my life, others are interpretations of what I see, and others are made up of past influences. At first the paintings were a way of dealing with my frustrations. The first few painting were expressive with bold black lines and the window looked like a broken structure. In this current series the lines, colors, and shapes take on different meanings. Example: free flowing lines indicate lots of activity going on, simple solid shapes mean all is calm, shapes that fit together mean accomplishment, shapes that don't fit together indicate unfinished business, faded colors represent age, depth, and mystery. Titles are a good insight as to what the theme of painting might be. The "Window Series" continues to evolve and keep my interest and curiosity.