Do you do preliminary sketches before painting your subject? In a sketchbook? Or directly on the canvas or paper? Why?

I do preliminary sketches before painting. You could call them thumbnail sketches to form composition and value. I use a small sketchbook and use chartpak or prismacolor value markers 20%, 60%, 80% values and a sharpie fine point. When I start to paint I have a good idea where I'm headed with my watercolor.

What time of day are you most creative? Early morning? Afternoon? Early evening? Late at night? Which season do you feel most creative? Winter, Fall, Spring, Summer? Why?

I'm most creative in the morning, especially if there is a lot of natural light. The fall is the most creative because of the good weather and vibrant colors and also the greens are less prevalent.

How do you feel about critiques? Feedback? Or do you prefer to problem solve on your own? What are the three most important things you look for when critiquing a painting? Why?

Critiques are good if they are constructive in nature. You can take the feedback and analyze it with your thoughts and come to a conclusion as to whether it will be useful for your future work. It is always interesting to see how different artists perceive your work. When I critique a painting I look for design, mostly shapes, value and color. Without good design your painting will lack clarity and impact.

What do you think creates artistic blocks? How do you solve them?

I think artistic blocks can be caused by trying to paint a masterpiece every time. If you are relaxed and enjoying the involvement you have with your subject, any fear and anxiety will lessen, allowing for better creativity.

Though most of us prefer working outdoors, do you prefer a studio where you live or maintaining a separate space? Why?

I prefer my studio where I live since this gives me easy access at anytime of day or night.

What does your studio look like?

My studio is a 17 by 24 foot room with bright white walls and 3 large windows facing north for the best light. I have spotlights for finished paintings and critiques. I couldn't ask for a better environment for painting.

Do you listen to music when you are painting? Have a TV on? If yes, what are your favorites? Do you use an ipod when painting outdoors? Or do you prefer silence?

75% of the time I listen to music while painting in my studio. The rest of the time I prefer silence. Depending on the mood, I will generally listen to classical or rock. I don't listen to music while painting outdoors. I prefer the sounds of the environment no matter where I'm painting.

What exhibition have you attended recently that inspired you? Why? Tell us about the show.

Not too long ago, Winslow Homer's paintings were on exhibit in the National Gallery in Washington DC. His watercolor paintings of Florida and the Caribbean were displayed and I went back three times. His technique in that time period is still the most fascinating to me.

Where do you find your greatest inspiration?

While I find inspiration in visiting galleries and viewing other artists' paintings and exhibitions, my greatest inspiration comes from discovering locations with new and interesting subjects. I especially like finding places with good shapes, light and shadows.

Do you have a favorite art quote that inspires you?

"Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent."

by Calvin Coolidge

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