Portfolio of Works

I just started painting (December 2020) with this wonderful new water based medium "Gouache"! I have been using this medium to do small paintings and plan to experiment "en plein air" soon! My style of painting works well with this fresh, fun quick drying water-based paint. 

Painting Plein Air is invigorating. It was the catalyst that motivated my fine art endeavors and got my passion back for painting. When I am out in the elements – racing against time, capturing the light, struggling to get everything composed before things change –  it's quite the challenge!

I enjoy exploring the outdoors and finding the perfect spot to paint. It's a completely different kind of process than painting trucks and cars – equally trying, but satisfying to say the least. My gratitude goes out to a handful of instructors, whose inspiring workshop instruction fueled my excitement for painting all over again.

I have always admired vintage trucks and cars, which I started painting a few years ago. I've developed a three-step process. First, I begin with a tight pencil sketch for accuracy, then make a complete underpainting of the subject to capture form, tone and value. Then I can finally apply the color. Trucks, Automobiles, Trains, and Bridges really test my drawing skills, and I enjoy the challenge.

My dog Scout and I would travel around Orange County looking for vintage trucks and cars to paint; it is amazing how many you notice when you are really looking for them.

Creating an original Salvo dessert or food painting starts with the perfect components...

Reflecting on childhood memories – and adult indulgences – seems to be the basis for these images. My hope is that the pieces will invoke a similar connection to all who view my work.

Finding the perfect subject matter begins with a written list and thumbnail sketches. After the lists are compiled and sketches reviewed, the hunt for possible candidates begins. I am always on the lookout for something delectable to paint, frequently acquiring accessories and possible backgrounds for the still life arrangements. I have made my own subjects (apple pie from scratch, for example). I’ve also gathered ingredients or products to arrange and style for the dessert and food images I’ve created. Many desserts are purchased at restaurants, bakeries, and local grocery stores. 

No matter what type of painting I’m working on – from still life to landscape – my primary objective is in capturing the light. When the painting process begins, I make a conscious effort to illuminate the subject accurately and then closely depict the strong and subtle shadow areas of the piece. I like playing the warm and cool tones off of each other for color harmony. 

I also like to explore the energy of my brush strokes, keeping their integrity strong and noticeable and making note of the luscious textures created by the application of paint. When viewing one of my finished paintings close-up, you can see that every brush mark is deliberate, intentional and calculated. Nothing is left to chance.

One of the benefits of painting desserts and food is in "tasting" the subject – really getting a feel for something you are creating visually. I make every effort to infuse each piece with the essence of the still life study.

This process creates a lasting visual reminder of a wonderful flavor sensation. Until the next one presents itself.