Artist Statement

My artistic practice is rooted in a lifelong fascination with the natural world, particularly aquatic life and the ecosystems that sustain it. Growing up in Southern California, my earliest encounters with aquatic environments came from observing my parents' goldfish aquarium, exploring tide pools, and swimming at the beach. These experiences sparked a curiosity about the extraordinary diversity of life beneath the water's surface, a curiosity that continues to inform my work today.

Central to my practice is the biophilia hypothesis, popularized by biologist E. O. Wilson, which proposes that humans possess an innate tendency to seek connections with nature and other living organisms. This concept resonates deeply with my own experiences and provides a framework for exploring the relationships between humans, other species, and the environments we share.

Through observation and artistic interpretation, I explore the intricate ways organisms interact with their surroundings, establish habitats, and participate in larger ecological systems. My experiences with fishkeeping and aquascaping have further shaped this interest, allowing me to observe these relationships on an intimate scale. I am particularly drawn to the subtle details and complexities of organisms that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Working across traditional and digital media, I approach my subjects with a combination of curiosity, observation, and imagination. Whether creating detailed representations or more whimsical interpretations of aquatic life, I seek to reveal the distinctive qualities of each organism while inviting viewers to consider its place within the natural world.

I believe art has the ability to foster meaningful connections between people and nature. By drawing attention to the beauty, complexity, and individuality of often-overlooked organisms, I hope to encourage a deeper appreciation for biodiversity and the ecological relationships that sustain it. My work is ultimately an invitation to look more closely, remain curious, and recognize the importance of preserving the natural world of which we are all a part.