My formal training is in the sciences of physiology and medicine, however, I have always had a passion for creating works of art.  According to my Mom, I was drawing chalk circles on the driveway before I could read, write or talk much.

How is the practice of Medicine connected to making art?

Medical practice is a rich and humbling experience.  So is carving a stone.  Both art and medicine require consistent attention and practice if there is any hope of achieving mastery. In medicine, I believe healing comes from being present - connecting to the human spirit. Art has the potential to connect the artist and the viewer to that mystery of spirit. Medicine, at its best offers healing. Art allows us to move into a non-linear experience of healing. Besides that, making art is a lot of fun.

Recently, as a hospice worker, I have the honor of working with patients closer to the end of life than the beginning. This practice has developed my awareness of the mystery of healing, the importance of relationships, the transient nature of our lives, the gift of health, the lessons of disease, the “work” of the dying and the importance of spiritual cultivation.

Awakening to these “truths” has given me the courage to explore my passion for art.  

As a painter, much of my work seems to result from happy accidents that occur as I play with color, texture and different methods of applying paint to canvas.  Painting brings me joy, sometimes frustration, awe and a deep sense of connection.  

I love sculpting because it is an interactive, physical, three dimensional journey with the stone.  In the best moments, sculpting is a wonderful meditation. At other times, a perfect practice of patient acceptance.

Art is an alchemical process – the fusion of spirit and matter creating an image by way of paint,  hammers, chisels, canvas, stone and the artist.