Art has always been an integral part of my life, but it wasn't until my late 30s that I actually discovered my deep passion for painting. It all started when I borrowed my youngest daughter's watercolour set and began to paint an outdoor scene of a sailboat anchored in a secluded bay. 

While finishing up the painting, I glanced at my watch and was absolutely stunned that three hours had passed without my knowing it. The moment I placed that first brushstroke onto the canvas, time appeared to stand still.  I became totally immersed in this unfamiliar place with incredible peace, no noise and zero distractions.  It was a feeling of deep solitude and peace I had not ever experienced.  I became encased in this deeply meditative state with no effort, without any awareness even of the state I was in...never mind that I had been there for over three hours! It was a defining moment for sure and one that I won't  forget.  

From that point onward, I've never stopped painting. It turns out that painting is my passion, where I find my comfort and what brings me joy.  Art has always been a focal point in my life, but I did not know that my passion for painting would evolve from a simple pastime into a fulfilling profession.

 My Story 

Allow me to share my art story and how I discovered this transformative power of painting.  More than 25 years has passed since that fateful day with my kids water colour set, and I now find myself retired from a career as a Parole Officer on a mission to paint everyday and continue to create the best possible pieces of art that I can.

Like many artists, my journey began with a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature. The intricate details of a blooming flower, the vibrant colours of a sunset matched with a tranquil landscape or seascape which continues to captivate my senses today.  I have found solace and inspiration in these natural wonders and it was through painting that I sought to capture their shape and essence.

Initially, painting was a personal retreat, a way for me to express my emotions and process my thoughts. I've spent hours immersed in the creative process, experimenting with different techniques and mediums. Each stroke of the brush became a form of self-expression, allowing me to convey my feelings onto the canvas.

As time went on, my passion for painting grew, and I began to share my artwork with others. The feedback and encouragement I received ignited a spark, fueling my desire to pursue art more seriously. I realized that my paintings had the power to evoke emotions in others, to transport them to a place of beauty and tranquility.  Over the years, I have sold numerous paintings that are hanging in private collections. I have had two solo art shows, both of which sold out and I feel more confident and eager than ever before to create even more fine art paintings in the coming days, months, and years ahead.   

I am self taught, and over the last 20 years I have dedicated myself to a self study practice, honing my skills and expanding my artistic horizons. I have immersed myself in the study of different art movements, learning from the masters who came before me. I continue to experiment with various styles and techniques, constantly pushing the boundaries of my creativity. That all said, I still consider myself as an emerging artist, but in a solid position poised to become a profession painter.     

A new chapter... 

I recently returned back to my chosen home of Kingston, Ontario, after living a nomadic lifestyle which began during the pandemic in 2020. My wife and I sold everything and lived full time at sea aboard our sailing Catamaran travelling around the Globe.  This three year adventure at sea was recently followed with a Canadian, coast to coast road trip in our camper van.

These unique life experiences have provided me with a vast and varied collection of reference photos ready to paint.  The variety of landscapes and seascapes I have experienced will continue to inspire my love of nature and the sharing of its beauty on my canvases.

I'm more aware than ever of how fragile the natural world has become. I've seen the terrible consequences of global warming.  In particular, the devastating effect on the Indigenous families of the San Blas Islands impacting their ability to thrive with the alarming rate of the sea levels rising.  Ocean life is also struggling as the numerous reefs in the Caribbean become bleached out due to the record  breaking warm waters.  Having also witnessed the devastating toll wildfires in Western Canada is having on the people and wildlife habitat in those areas, not to mention the air quality and extreme heat.  It is sometimes difficult to stay mindful within the beauty of the natural world, with all the devastation currently happening.  

I am incredibly grateful to have seen and felt the magnificent natural wonder of this planet and although I am deeply concerned for the health of the Earth today and in the future; my brushstrokes attempt to express the absolute glory of life on land and at sea and serves as a reminder that we are all connected within our environment.      

My Paintings  

My paintings today are primarily in the genre of "Contemporary Landscapes". However, I do on occasion aspire to complete "Abstracts" as there is a freedom in letting go and mixing colours to see what happens when thrown onto a canvas. 

My work is primarily in acrylics, using professional-quality cotton canvases and/or board surfaces. Because of the limited space on my sailboat and camper van, my earlier original paintings currently listed on the website are of a small to moderate size.  Now that I'm staying put for awhile, and thrilled to be in my new studio space where I now have the room to begin producing larger original works.     

In all my paintings I try to include a focal point. Understanding how light falls on the canvas ensures that the values (lightness or darkness) remain consistent throughout, creating a sense of depth, harmony, and realism. 

When I start a painting I always try and begin with a deep inhale, and focus  myself within the vista.  I don't feel like my paintings are simply "products",  since my paintings become a part of my creative expression or journey.  My paintings are very personal to me as I've pored hours into creating something that simply emerges from my inner being.  I treat my art seriously and I love to create something that never existed before.    

I enjoy keeping space for experimenting as a  painting is an evolution and I'm always trying to push myself, and in doing so I find myself never satisfied.  The question always becomes this ongoing challenge with balancing perfection with acceptance.  I'll continue to work on that feeling to which a painting is never complete.   

Print Shop

Museum-Quality Matte Prints (Renewable Eco Friendly)

My collection of fine art prints allow me to bring the beauty of nature into people's homes, that may not be able to afford an original painting at this time. The ability to hang art on your wall should be for everyone which is the reason why I've chosen to sell prints. 

My hope is that my art is a testament to the transformative power of art, capable of inspiring hopefulness and fostering a sense of interconnectedness with ourselves and with the planet.  I want my art to represent nature and my hope is to remind each of us how fragile it is, especially with the many changes occurring to our climate.    

Today, I am grateful to be able to share my art with a wider audience through this website. 

Whether you are a fellow art enthusiast or someone discovering the world of art for the first time, I invite you to explore my paintings. Each stroke of the brush tells a story of passion, dedication, and the profound impact that art can have on our lives.  

Thank you for joining me on this artistic journey.

  

Mission Statement

As an artist, my mission is to capture and share the inherent beauty of the natural world, portraying it as a sacred resource that deserves our utmost respect and care. Through my artwork, I seek to evoke a deep appreciation for the magnificent landscapes and seascapes that surround us, while also raising awareness of their fragility. I aim to inspire a sense of stewardship and mindfulness in others, reminding us all that the environment is not just a source of aesthetic wonder but a vital, delicate ecosystem that we must cherish and protect for future generations.

Thank you for your support!