The experience of nature in its rawest form first inspired my paintings. As a smokejumper it was critical for me to pay careful attention to the terrain, weather and all the elements of nature. As an artist I try to use that observation in my painting to capture the look and feel of movement in the clouds and to convey the mood and atmosphere.

I start a painting by blocking the essential values from dark to light, while keeping the source of light consistent. I try to capture the basic essence of the subject matter so that it reads as a realistic image.

I work in plein air and in the studio. I like to paint rather loosely. I often start by brushing on a wash of color, and then use a palette knife to add texture and detail. The palette knife helps me to work quickly, to stay loose and spontaneous so that I don’t overwork the subject.

Many artists have inspired me, including the legendary painters Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent, Frank Wooten and Robert Henri. I have also been influenced by contemporary artists Richard Schmid, Matt Smith, and Lynn Boggess.