Grit and Beauty

Creating a five foot by five foot piece of art on canvas with oil pastels isn’t very efficient. But I’m most satisfied when drawing, and also most satisfied with the unusual effect the layering of oil pastels can provide.

Evoking an emotion is what I’ve been after for over 30 years as a teacher, a creative director, and as an artist.

I’ve chosen the 1940’s as my subject for a show because it evokes emotions in me of tremendous respect and admiration. Respect for the grit and beauty that existed in everyday people and everyday life.

Grit and Beauty is what the men and women of 1940’s Pittsburgh had as they traversed through a world filled with war, conflict, hard work and hard times. They seldom lost sight of the gift of another day, and faced it with joy, style and hope.

This was the decade that the most influential people in my life were coming-of-age. My admiration for those people is nearly matched by my admiration for, and my fascination with, that time and place.

I work on large pieces approximately 4.5 feet by 4.5 feet using oil pastels on either stretched canvas or Arches watercolor paper.