Artist Statement

My artworks explore the complex relationship between queer erotica, art history and expressions of desire and intimacy. Using black and white oil paints allows me to create high visual contrast that coincides with the conceptual contrasting elements of my work. My paintings incorporate both the brashness of the leather subculture, to the quiet and tender intimacies of daily life. Not only is the content of my work important, but the materials I use to create are intentional. Oil painting and building and stretching my own canvases are rooted in traditional conventions of painting. My paintings contain resonance and movement behind each brush stroke. I capture vulnerability in myself as well as my subject matter in my approach to painting. In my work, I connect with other queer artists, past and present. I often use reference material from art history as well as my personal life to produce work that is grounded in both art history, and my own life experience. The tension between the themes of the work, as well as the visual contrast creates dynamic and resonant artworks that feel truly representative of my artistic voice and vision.