Artist Statement

 Growing up in an African-American family, I was fortunate to be blessed with a talent that is worldly common, allowing me the ability to put my thoughts into a work of artistic conception. I have been drawing since I was ten, utilizing my pastime to draw my mother’s favorite cartoon characters. On completion she would take them to work and dote to colleagues of my developing talent. Once my family realized my potential was rapidly increasing, they supported my dreams and training whole heartily.  
  
When starting work on a piece of art, I become at peace. No matter how my day is going or my life; I know that if my ideas are coming to life on the canvas, wood, or paper then I am truly at a place of serenity.  I have control of my art work, if it fails to meet my standards I can always start anew, but life continues on without my consent.  My favorite thing about my work is the risks I take. By working with wood and not as a wood artist but as a portraitist using wood as my medium, was a great risk. In taking that venture it allowed my work to maintain a fun, creative and innovative twist. This twist is one of a kind; rough, beautiful, contemporary and captivating. 
  
A little about me and how I operate:

My favorite tool is the pencil because it is the foundation of the piece; if the foundation is weak, the piece will be weak. My favorite color is red, for it is dominant; it will stand out in a crowd and it is important to shine when my work needs attention.  I enjoyed working with wood for it enhances what some say is a limited color palette.    
  
Working with wood, I am constantly reminded that my medium is unique therefore; my artwork must be unique.  When my work is going well, I am filled with a sense of accomplishment, so when people see my work, I'd like them to have the same reaction as I do. I know when a piece is done, I find myself saying, "Wow, I did that! And it’s amazing!"