My first painting on wood was done in 1988. These paintings have been very popular. The wood has come from various buildings on the farm I was brought up on. Many of the boards used on these works are over 100 years old. The wood has its own “soul,” which, I think, influences and adds character to the finished works. These works may be framed, but are intended to stand alone without. Sometimes a piece of thick yarn is applied around the main image to create border that acts as a frame.

Each wood piece is given at least six primer coats of white gesso to make a barrier between the wood and the paint. Sometimes I use a woodburner to selectively etch lines into the paintings. The wood burner peels back layers of primer and yields a 3-dimensional line that adds a quality of bas-relief to the work. Painting on wood also allows me to stray away from the strict rectangular format. I enjoy using old ironing boards, skate boards, even used pizza paddles to add variety of shape.

"Meditation"

"The Artist's Vocabulary"

"St. James Mocked"

"Artist's Vocabulary #3"

"Indian/Ocean"

"Indian with Broadbill"

"Apart from the Herd"

"Happy Boy of 1957"

"The Lost Friend"