STATEMENT

My paintings are sometimes funny, nostalgic, innocent, literal and kitsch. My work explores Americana, consumerism and the plastic veneer that we spread around us and call comfort.

My most resent subject Matter — toy guns— is more apparently subversive than my past work. I have two small children and am increasingly more aware of mixed messages in advertising and how my four-year-old tries to figure out right from wrong. As a parent, I am supposed to guide her through these decisions; as an artist and a consumer, I am drawn to bright colors and thrilling packaging. I try to make these objects appealing and strong so that the viewer is as absorbed by the formal beauty of the object as I am. But there is always a question in my mind about glorified violence and lessons learned. So for now, we have toys for kids, and toys for mom hidden in the studio.