Some of My Work

There’s more on the way, but as I’ve relaunched into my artistic expression I’m reminded that creating anything often takes more time than expected.

Metal scroll work mirror frame with heart shapes
Metal decorative mirror frame. 27″ x 23″

Granite topped scrolled steel table
Granite topped table – steel. 30″ x 23″ x13″

A bowl of bits of clay with a clay egg in the middle
Which came first – the dragon or the egg? In this case the egg. Whisper the Dragon is made using local clay.

Whisper in process - trying wing walking.
Whisper trying wing walking

Whisper the Dragon and me
Whisper the Dragon and me. Whisper is still a work in progress – so am I. 🙂

Where does the time go? Making things like a giant dandelion ‘puff’ being made from wire. There will be two, and together they contain almost a quarter mile of wire!

Metal dandelion 'puff' in progress
Hours of time trying different approaches and materials. Wanted something that would convey delicate liveliness, but that kids of all ages could touch. Pretty sure I got it, now comes the work!

Smile1 - Original print by David Ocean
Smile! A quick print I made to use as an image placeholder on this site.

Rediscovering My Artistic Journey: Embracing Creativity After a Hiatus

Every artist encounters periods where life’s responsibilities compete for attention, leading to a hiatus from their creative pursuits. My journey was marked by such distractions, which pulled me away from the world of artistic expression. At first, I perceived these obligations as temporary interruptions; however, they gradually morphed into an extended absence which – though long – helped to clarify my passion for expressing my artistic desires.

During this hiatus, I experienced significant personal growth and transformation. The challenges I faced were not merely obstacles; they were learning opportunities that shaped my character and outlook. While I longed for the enjoyment that art provided, there was a growing realization that my experiences enriched my emotional landscape. The distractions, while initially seen as deterrents, imparted lessons in resilience, patience, and appreciation for the fleeting nature of time. I began to understand how these elements intertwined with my artistry, instilling a deeper sense of meaning in my work. The emotional impact of stepping away was profound; it highlighted the crucial role that creativity plays in my identity, as well as the importance of artistic expression for mental well-being.

Ultimately, this hiatus served as a reminder of the delicate balance between life’s responsibilities and personal passions. Many artists can resonate with the idea of being drawn away from their craft by external factors. However, those very distractions can lead to a richer understanding of oneself and ignite a renewed passion for artistic endeavors. As I navigated through this tumultuous period, I recognized that the journey back to creativity could be as significant as the act of creating itself.

My Artistic Philosophy: The Power of Emotion in Art

Art has always been a channel through which human emotions can be expressed, shared, and understood. My artistic philosophy centers on the belief that the primary purpose of art is to evoke emotion, serving as a bridge that connects the artist with the viewer. This creative connection is more than just aesthetics; it is at the core of all that we experience as life, facilitating a deeper comprehension of ourselves and the world around us. In creating art, my aim is to immerse others in ideas that resonates emotionally, creating an atmosphere where shared feelings and personal interpretations can flourish.

Each color selection, texture and form carries the potential to elicit a wide range of emotions, influencing the perception of those who engage with the artwork. I strive to produce pieces that invite some sort of response (hopefully a smile), encouraging viewers to connect on an individual level. Through this emotional engagement, art transforms into a universal language that can communicate profound truths, transcending language and cultural barriers. My focus on both ‘normal’ and quirky pieces further reflects this philosophy. The humor and oddity found in certain works can serve as a lens to view reality from an alternative angle, prompting discussions regarding the norms that usually dictate our perceptions.

Moreover, I firmly believe that art acts as a mirror, reflecting both internal and external realities. It can challenge societal standards and provoke critical thought, pushing individuals to reconsider their outlook. By embracing emotions in art, I aim to foster a sense of community among diverse audiences, creating a space where differing perspectives and experiences can converge. Ultimately, my dedication to capturing and communicating emotion through art is rooted in the desire to elevate human connection, nurturing understanding and empathy in an often fragmented world.

The Creative Process: What to Expect From My Latest Works

As I embark on this renewed artistic journey, my creative process has undergone notable transformations that reflect both personal growth and a deeper understanding of artistic expression. This evolution has been significantly influenced by a variety of materials and themes that I am presently exploring. In crafting my latest pieces, I use multiple types of media when creating my pieces. This provides the freedom to express and accentuate different aspects of each piece  – whether it be a juxtaposition or alliance of materials that might accentuate the ideas behind the work. 

At this juncture, I am producing a limited number of works as I begin my further creative journey. , a conscious choice as I prioritize quality and authenticity over quantity in my output. Each piece represents a significant investment of time and thought, with the aim of contributing meaningfully to my evolving portfolio. Looking ahead, I am excited to expand upon these initial offerings, ensuring that each subsequent piece captures the essence of my artistic exploration and continues to inspire anticipation among my audience.

Art as a Shared Experience: The Importance of Community

Art thrives in environments that encourage communal engagement. By openly sharing artistic endeavors, we foster connections that transcend individual backgrounds and perspectives. The act of creating is often personal, yet sharing art transforms it into a collective experience, enriching our appreciation and understanding. Within the creative community, shared experiences allow artists to engage with diverse viewpoints, leading to a more enriched dialogue about our work and the world we inhabit.

   The significance of artist support networks cannot be overstated. These networks create an inclusive space where artists can share their struggles, triumphs, and insights. Engaging meaningfully within such networks can lead to personal growth, as we learn from each other’s experiences. Conversations ignited through art can break boundaries, opening doors to discussions on societal issues, emotional struggles, and shared dreams. As we navigate our artistic journeys together, we nurture a sense of camaraderie, allowing us to create with purpose.

As we continue to share our art and experiences, I invite readers to become active participants in this evolving dialogue. Engaging with one another’s creativity not only enhances our own artistic voices but contributes to a larger, richer community that values creativity and expression. Let us embrace the importance of community, as art is meant to be shared and celebrated together.