It’s fairly obvious that in today’s world, we often celebrate flawless perfection. We need to look no further than social media and the many catfish filters that exist that will magically reimagine videos and photographs to project a more flawless persona. In the art world many artists I speak to feel like their art is never finished, they are obsessing over a certain area, or it’s not good enough. I see the similarities, perhaps you do too. So, it seems, we are all vulnerable to this dilemma.

My artwork takes a different direction by embracing imperfection, not shying away from it. Drawing inspiration from the Japanese principle of wabi-sabi, my paintings capture the inherent beauty found in the imperfect with every mark I make.

Through a mindless heart approach, I paint in a state of mushin no shin or a no-mind moment. By letting go of overthinking and allowing my intuition to guide my hand, I am able to create art that is truly authentic and unburdened by the thoughts of the day.

On canvas, my mark-making technique often involves layering multiple colors, mediums, lines, and textures, and will purposefully add scraps and flaws. In digital, I use tools to help me achieve a “worn” aesthetic. My process compresses time, giving the impression of a distressed and weathered surface. Each mark represents a breath, a moment frozen in time, and the effect is a nod to the wisdom of age and ultimately the acceptance of imperfection.

I’d like my artwork to serve as a reminder that imperfection is not only natural but also quite beautiful. It is through trying something and then trying again that we learn. That is real growth. I encourage viewers to take a moment, take a breath, and embrace the flaws and blemishes that make YOU human and to find joy in the unique characteristics that make YOU so special.