I work with metal effects paints (iron, copper, bronze) which change color as they oxidize, creating evocative patina in shades of brown, green and blue. The process yields dramatic yet naturalistic effects. I often incorporate vintage objects into my work such as using 75+ year old letterpress trays and vintage oak desk drawers as my canvass, and creating sculptures atop the bases of vintage wrought iron candelabras. I sometimes painstakingly hand chisel wood planks prior to painting which gives the work a 3D effect. I collect and tumble semi-precious stones which I sometimes use to ornament my paintings and sculptures. The lovely hues of agate, garnet and jasper augment the natural colors of the oxidized metal effects paint and provide even the casual art aficionado a way to approach and appreciate the art work. For those attuned to the spiritual and metaphysical properties of minerals, the pieces exude positive calming energy. As a young man, I developed an interest in ancient civilizations which led to personal exploration of architectural ruins and reinforced his yearning for a lost past. Themes of decay and loss can be found in many of my pieces, and is reflected in my choice of medium, the evocative build up of patina that develops as a result of the oxidation of iron copper and bronze metal effects paint. When in my early 20s, I was enthralled by Mark Rothko’s large color field paintings exhibited in a retrospective at the Guggenheim Museum. Lost in spiritual reverie while contemplating Rothko’s works, I experienced an ineffable sense of the sublime. This experience left a lasting impression on me and has had an enduring influence on my art. I try in my own work to capture some of that sense of awe that Rothko’s work evokes.