When looking for subject matter, I look for those surfaces that are unique and when you look at the paintings, you recognize that texture and understand what it feels like. I focus on visual texture rather than physical texture within the paintings, it makes the viewer wonder how that texture was created. Older buildings with unique histories strike me as having more character and are more interesting to observe than new, or modern buildings. One wonders what the buildings have previously been used for; perhaps a home or a business. As I spend time looking, I wonder how these buildings appeared when they were first built and what lives they have led as they changed with age.

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            The paintings presented are naturalistic, but the way the paint is applied is based in a study of surrealism. Oil paint allows me to create a particular texture that I want and when I apply it to the canvas, the color and texture will not change. Through accentuating the qualities and the characteristics of the places and subjects I choose to paint, the buildings become even more interesting. Bringing out the color and character of the buildings or scenes, is what makes the scene come to life. The juxtaposition of flat and textured surfaces will help the viewer connect with the paintings and hopefully look at buildings with a new perspective. The viewer can get lost in the little details of the painting and feel like they’re inside of it, interacting with the scene. Overall, the viewer can engage with the paintings and the feelings that they have when viewing them.