I have a deep appreciation for nature. In my work I seek to convey the landscape as I experience it emotionally as well as visually. I travel frequently throughout the United States and Europe in search of new landscapes. Some of my favorite subjects include rivers and creeks in the Texas hill country; aspen trees in the Rocky Mountains; ponds in New England; and lush rolling hills in the English countryside. My influences include French and Russian Impressionists and early California landscape painters. The act of painting makes me feel alive. It is as essential to me as breathing. I'm at my easel constantly because painting gives me a sense of freedom and makes me who I truly am.