Artist Statement
We are constantly judging the people around us, whether we are aware of it or not. My paintings are a critique, not of my subjects, but of the rest of us
that cannot look past their clothing. We have become so separate and isolated in this fast paced world that we are often left only with visualinformation to size others up. In turn; as we get dressed each morning, we are putting on the fabric that will determine our character.
In my works I choose to express this habit by combining traditional portraiture with the non-traditional element of fabric. I attempt to recreate the first impression others may have of these subjects by forcing the viewer to come to terms with the focal point: the unavoidable conflict of the fabric juxtaposed with the paint. The addition of these non-typical elements stimulate a reaction in viewers that is meant to punctuate my statement. The fabric is there to mimic the obstruction of reality their judgment creates.