For over thirty years, I’ve taught students from middle school
through college how to express themselves creatively. I’ve
demonstrated perspective, focal point, rhythm, harmony,
directional forces, unity and color theory through a vast array of
visual media—from clay to colored pencil, from transfer type to
computers. The principles of design don’t change, but the means
for self-expression do. I’ve nurtured, cajoled, plodded and pushed
my students to use their imaginations and creative talents in ways
that allow them to freely explore their ideas without fear of failure.

Well, now it’s my turn.

Intellectually I know and understand all these principles of good
design, yet I’m not necessarily honoring them in my own work.
For me, it’s all about bold, in-your-face color, and form—organic
and downright sensuous. My subjects are clearly floral in nature,
but not true to form and anatomy.

Art is, and always should be, merely a means for self-expression.
As a teacher and freelance graphic designer, I’m thrilled with the
prospect of creating something that doesn’t communicate a clear
message. I just want to relish in pushing color to extremes and
paying homage to the beauty of nature.