The discovery of plein-air painting was a definite jumping-off place in my growth as an artist. I started my career as a portrait painter. I learned early on the value of painting from life and I still commit to weekly figure sessions. But it was painting outdoors that helped push me beynd my normal comfort zone.

I already had a deep appreciation of nature fostered by years of growing up on the muddy banks of Buffalo Bayou in Houston and from our frequent trips to the Gulf Coast. So it seemed natural to combine my desire to paint with my love for the outdoors. The world became a much bigger studio. The difference was the time factor imposed by the sun and the elements. At home there is an inclination to slow down and think to too much about the rules. Outdoors, especially with a sunrise painting, there is barely time to react before the magic is gone. Fear and coubt are set aside and the creative spirit is allowed to come through.