Projects
My inspiration comes in the form of topics and concepts. I explore these muses in a variety of media. A specific concept may be better explored in serigraph rather than encaustic. And vice- versa. Something might lend itself to dry media vs. wet. Sometimes a project takes a turn midway through and goes into a completely new direction. Each of these projects produces a selection of pieces that later becomes a suite of work.
Abundance (2021)
Mixed media on paper 60 x 42 in
Mixed media on paper 60 x 42 in
Acrylic on Panel 32" x 22" NFS
Mixed media on paper 60 x 42 in
Abundance is an examination of the concept of wealth through the lens of social stratification. Subject matter includes a seated portrait of a "homeless" man (Shawn Smith), an aerial view of the camp he calls home, as well as symbols of wealth in the form of an overstocked refrigerator interior and spoiling groceries.
Youthful Commodities (2016-current)
Petshop Gallery, Omaha Nebraska
mixed media (encaustic image transfer, sardine tins, carbon) 38" x 59" $10,000
mixed media encaustic image transfer 8" x 6" x 4" $400
Petshop Gallery, Omaha Nebraska
Youthful Commodities is a project involving the use of assemblages, encaustics, and forms of printmaking to remind the viewer of the vulnerability of American labor standards. I utilize public domain images taken by Lewis Hine 100 years ago as part of his efforts on behalf of the National Committee on Child Labor. This body of work is as much a tribute to his (and fellow activists) efforts as it is to the children the images depict.
One component of this project features hundreds of sardine tins embedded with encaustic image transfers of the children that once labored in American sardine canneries circa 1911-1915. By embedding the images in the cans, devoid of context beyond their expressions, I hope to draw attention to the commodification of these children and their childhoods. By assembly line producing the cans in my studio, I echo the repetitive to their labors.
Judith (2016 - current)
mixed media 80" x 42" x 130"
mixed media 80" x 42" x 130"
Using the Book of Judith as a point of departure, I addressed this classic story with modern twists and wove in threads of revenge, sex, violence, beauty, virtue, as well as the concepts of the underdog and female empowerment.
This project spans the spectrum of my proficiency in two dimensional media. Screen printing, powdered charcoal and graphite, acrylic and oil based media were used to generate the pieces that populate this suite of work.
Kansas City Strip (2020)
serigraph on paper 5" x 5" (9"x9", framed) $50.00
serigraph on vintage wallpaper 11" x 8.5" $150.00
A serigraph exploration of Kansas City's burlesk and go-go past. Primarily based off of actual handbills and advertisements from the Kansas City Star/Times circa 1940 to 1970. The Folly, The Yum Yum Lounge, Cat Balleu, the Strand "Art Theatre", the Jewel Box, and the Old Chelsea all make an appearance.
Take it to the Bridge (2014 - 2019)
encaustic 14" x 14" (framed)
encaustic w/ image transfer 8" x 10" (private collection)
charcoal on paper 42" x 42" (private collection- traded for magic beans)
encaustic 14" x 14" (framed)
An homage to the iconic A.S.B. Bridge. Every kind of media and every kind of perspective explores this very special structure on our riverfront.
Intimate Spaces (ongoing)
oil on canvas 24" x 30" $800
oil on canvas 20" x 16" $500
oil on canvas 33" x 19" (framed) $1400
oil on canvas 24" x 30" $800
Personal places and moments. Typically painted from observation.
Coordinates (2019 - 2020)
Location. Location. Location. It's all about the history and future at a certain point in space.
Narcissus Smirked (2016)
Gallery 105, Lincoln, NE
encaustic image transfer on mounted cell phone (private collection)
encaustic image transfer on mounted cell phone, chicken feet, plaster (private collection)
Gallery 105, Lincoln, NE
A snapshot of our selfie culture. The age of cell phones, filters, and the ability to make the perfect self-portrait to be shared with all the world in a matter of seconds.