Artist Statement

I often refer to my work as Modern Alchemy.

Just as the alchemists of long ago attempted to create something precious from the base metals, my work attempts to conjure something uniquely beautiful by combining basic images and icons. While the alchemists of old bordered on the mystic, Modern Alchemy uses powerful archetypal images that awaken the viewer’s genetic memories and evoke a deep sense of primal spirituality. The use of found objects plays right into the hand of Modern Alchemy. Beach rock, rust, bones, and broken pieces of pottery all are featured prominently.

My latest work uses these themes however I have begun to add a new dimension. By using images printed on acetate, as well as extensive use of mirrors, the works now incorporate their surroundings as a part of the piece. Hanging these works in a window or on a coloured wall will give the piece a whole new feel. As a further exploration I am also experimenting with grains embedded in fibreglass resin. This adds a tactile dimension to the piece while staying true to the primal themes.

The messages are simple and yet flexible.

Art is in the eye of the beholder. Behold. Think. Feel…

Experience and Education

Consistent with my beliefs in the Apprentice/Journeyman system, I have very little formal schooling yet have a wealth of real life experience in many artistic disciplines. Amongst others, I have had a top 40 Canadian hit with an original rock band, held a senior position in Imagination Market (an arts and recycling organization), and been a freelance graphic artist for over 10 years.

I began building sculptures with found objects in 1995 but didn’t really begin promoting my work as an assemblage artist until December of 2001 when I helped found Alchemy Studios on the Sunshine Coast of B.C. I have since lived in Vancouver and Montreal.

I am currently employed as the Creative Director of a software firm and have authored several internationally published articles on web programming.

Selected Exhibits

• Sept. 2006, Gallery Twenty-Four, Berlin, International Assemblage Show
• Nov. - Dec. 2005, Street Music, Vancouver/Sunshine Coast. A street art installation of record based pieces.
• Oct. 2005, Gallery Twenty-Four, Berlin, International Assemblage Show
• Sept. 2005, Gallery Twenty-Four, Berlin, Art Arising. Four person group show all Canadian art.
• April 2004, Bowen Island Arts Centre, Solo show of new original work.
• Sept. 2003, Gallery Twenty-Four, Berlin, International Assemblage Show. Two pieces were chosen to be hung in this show which included pieces from artists from all over the world.
• Sept. 2003, Sunshine Coast Arts Centre, Modern Alchemy. A solo show of new works.
• Sept. 2002, Sunshine Coast Arts Centre, 9-1-1 A retrospective of pieces inspired by September 11th.

My Current Artistic Pursuits