Artist's Statement

For over 20 years I have pursued a strong interest in the visual arts. I have taken extensive classes in calligraphy, stained glass, ceramics, figure drawing and painting in college courses and artists' workshops. I have practiced many years as a clinical nurse specialist in the field of cardiology. Several years ago, I discovered that I have a passion for oriental brush painting, which represents a wonderful convergence between the challenges I face in my medical practice that often require that I counsel patients to make fundamental lifestyle changes, and my art form which speaks to both discipline and deep inner serenity.

I have received intensive instruction from several recognized masters of this medium, including Traci Tso Griffith of San Jose, California, and Susan Frame of Clearwater, Florida, author of Japanese Ink Painting: Beginner's Guide to Sumi-e. I have had the good fortune to study with one of the greatest living Japanese masters, the 73 year-old Shozo Sato who now resides by the seacoast in a remote area of northern California.

I create my paintings using traditional methods and materials including bamboo brushes, ink stick and grinding stone, asian papers made from plant fibers and barks (often called rice paper), and Chinese watercolors. My subject matter is nature, and commonly includes the traditional "Four Gentlemen": the orchid, bamboo, plum blossom and chrysanthemum, as well as land and seascapes, fish, birds and animals.

I have evolved a deep respect for the traditions and cultural roots of this approach to art, and also the spirit of freedom and self-expression that it allows. This is truly, for me, an art form that speaks of serenity and health.

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