I’m always looking for ways into a new painting. It can start during a walk and seeing a pattern on the ground made by the shadow of a tree.

An open door to an inviting little cottage, or an interesting gesture made by a child. I have a list of ideas and a pocketbook of thumbnails that I keep. When something starts to germinate enough to call me to action I will start to develop it. This is important. The idea that bubbles to the surface has to be present and strong to direct me through the following phases.

The act of painting, from the inception through to “the thing realized” is guided by conversation. A conversation between me and “the thing”. I start with a drawing. If I need reference, I’ll look for it. Drawing gives me time to think about the picture. It starts a conversation often asking who, what, when, where, why? I like to get into the logistics of production, as well. Will it be a limited palette? What size? What medium? Value scale. I think of these things up front. But they’re all subject to change.

Once I’ve gathered enough of this information, I’ll start the painting. Then, a whole new conversation opens up.