COLLEGE AND EARLY TWENTIES, 1966-1974

As a visual arts major seeking a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree,  my four year curriculum at Ohio Wesleyan University mostly consisted of a variety of studio art and art history classes that included the exploration of a number of mediums, subjects and styles. A highlight of this time period was a semester in New York City apprenticed to the artists, Jack and Sondra Beal. They had a loft studio in SOHO. They were skillful and caring mentors. All together, it was an inspiring and stimulating experience including exposure to New Realism and Hard Edge Painting movements that were in vogue in 1970. Right before graduation, four unarmed students were shot and killed by members of the Ohio National Guard during a Vietnam War Protest. As a result of this nearby and shocking tragedy, I created the large painting shown below as a tribute to these students. This was the first time I created  artwork that addresses emotional and social concerns. 

After graduation I moved to Atlanta, Georgia to become a community service worker in a low income neighborhood. To balance this stressful work, it was helpful to spend time doing yoga and meditation.  This form of contemplative practice has had an influence on my creative expression and imagination.