Walking through the woods, fields and hills of our great out-of-doors
fills me with inspiration and renews and refreshes my spirit. Finding a special “space” within the landscape brings an uplifting moment into my life, causing me to want to share that moment with others. That is why I paint the visions that God shares with me through his creation.
More than anything, I enjoy the moments out in the field when I can find an inner peace and tranquility through the fresh air and beauty I find there. Often we do not find enough time to spare those moments in our busy lives.
I have been able to take students from Western Michigan University to Michigan’s islands for an “Outdoor Encounter” class, when we can
“find the time” to set aside phones, schedules and everyday pressures –
and let God’s creation have an impact on our thinking and creativity.
I incorporate wildlife into my work, but in a subtle way. Rather than
being the focus of my paintings, I am painting the wildlife in the scene, as you would find them out in the field. Usually one must be quiet and drink in the scene bit by bit before the wildlife even make an impact on the viewer. This is how I have been introducing them into the painting, in a quiet and serene way.
Be still and find the tranquility you need for tomorrow.
