Distinctly Montana Magazine

D I S T I N C T L Y M O N T A N A M A G A Z I N E • S U M M E R 2 0 2 0 26 lives have served as a reminder (for me) that even in the middle of uncertainty, I still only have right now. There is no time like this moment to start trying everything I have dreamed of. To date, my favorite medium to work on is thick glass. I love the strokes and marks that can be made on this surface, and how they completely change as soon as light bounces off or passes through them. Painting on this medium has challenged me to the core, as I find it extremely difficult. I want to continue to push myself as an art- ist, and to continue to create work that pushes me to keep asking questions. And I want this to show up in my work. HORSES ARE A PROMINENT THEME IN MANY OF YOUR PAINTINGS. HOW HAVE HORSES INFLUENCED AND INSPIRED YOUR WORK? I have loved horses for as far back as I can remember. They are a constant source of inspiration, and comfort, for me. I feel their energy when I am with them on a physical, emotional, and even spiritual level. I am grateful that I have the chance to spend time with them on a regular basis. I feel grounded when I am in their presence. Horses are old souls. The quiet exchange of positive energy and communication that takes place just from standing next to a horse, or with a group of horses, is simply extraor- dinary. Within them is a silent calm, yet a very powerful sense of acceptance, grace, wisdom, and strength. YOU'VE BEEN REFERRED TO AS A CONTEMPORARY EXPRESSIONIST AND A COLORIST, BUT HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF AND YOUR ART IN YOUR OWN WORDS? I like both of those terms. I believe that my work is very contemporary and quite expressive. And I resonate to all colors! I would describe myself as someone who enjoys "creating outside the lines." YOUR WORK DOES AN INCREDIBLE JOB OF CAPTURING THE REST- LESS, WILD SPIRIT OF THE WEST. TELL US ABOUT HOW YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE WEST INFORMS YOUR WORK. I draw my inspiration from the incredible view, skies, colors, and landscapes of the West. I believe that my paintings are restless and wild, because having the ability to resonate to that wildness that a place like Montana possesses is essential to embrace the creative spirit within me. The Miles City Bucking Horse Club 18" x 36" Oil on Panel Christmas Eve Farmlights Near Fishtail 8" x 10" Oil on Panel

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