Short Description of Art talk presentation:

In retirement, I have returned to art with a more thoughtful and deliberate approach to painting. Before beginning a piece, I take time to consider the major decisions involved, including subject, composition, and overall direction, with the intention of carrying the work through to completion.

I often begin my paintings on paper because it allows me to work efficiently and provides a receptive surface for detailed drawing, which is the first step in my process. My drawings are usually based on photographs I have taken, but I do not try to create a strictly photographic copy. Instead, I often alter the composition to better capture the feeling, atmosphere, and overall impression of the scene.

Speaker Bio:

My interest in art began in my youth with oil painting lessons. I later studied Commercial Illustration at Syracuse, though I ultimately chose not to pursue it as a career. Instead, I continued painting in oils for enjoyment and personal expression.

I have long been inspired by the Hudson River School of painting and have visited many museums across several states to study those works firsthand. Much of my artistic growth has been self-taught through observation, experimentation, and a continued focus on composition and layered technique. I consider composition and layering to be among the strongest elements of my work.