| Artist's Statement |
Why trees? At a very early age I can recall a great fondness I had with
a Large Mimosa tree that grew in our front yard. Like a monkey I would
frequently climb and perch on one of it's larger branches. I think I
somehow bonded with that tree as much as one does with a pet.
I have always admired the impressive very old live oaks and very tall
large pecan trees that were plentiful in the area of south Louisiana
where I lived the earlier part of my life. When I moved to Dallas to
attend college, what I remember missing most, after my family and
gumbo of course, were the tall, lush trees. I then returned to Louisiana
but after living in the lush green and very humid climate of southern
portion of the state I suddenly found myself longing for the warm and
arid climate of the rolling prairies and wide open spaces of North
Texas. So after nearly ten years I moved back to the friendly
atmosphere of North Texas. My paintings are therefore a marriage of
the two states, Louisiana and Texas representing my past and my
present.
In many cultures and religions trees represent strength, faith and/or life.
The incredible growth of trees provides us with the essential element
that nourishes our every breadth.
Especially in Louisiana, as well as other parts of the south property or
homes were often listed for sale with the inclusion of how many Peca
trees or Oaks were on the property. Old Live Oaks or large Pecan
trees were considered assets and a selling point for a property. In
the south, trees were seen as a focal point, from family gatherings
to relaxing afternoons that take place under the protective and
soothing shade of these Live Oaks or Pecan trees. It is not uncommon
that these trees were given names and a place of honor and respect
in southern families or communities. My paintings are a sort of homage
to their majesty and grace, and to the bounty and beauty of the wide
open prairies that create the infinite horizons here in north and west
Texas.
My landscapes are design to become an adventure where the
viewer becomes an explorer discovering splendor in this painted
environment. The lone, large tree in the infinite expanse of lan
reflects a feeling of oneness inspiring a sense that we represent a
small but important part of our country, the world, and the universe.
2006 |
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