Artist Statement
A few years ago. I was fortunate to have the pleasure of meeting Robert Mirabal, a Native American musician and performer from the Taos Pueblo. He was kind enough to lead me in a meditation that revealed my two totems. Many of my life-size figurative sculptures carry a reference to these totems, sometimes both in a single piece.
I am taken by the mysterious landscape and whisperings from the ancient peoples who once lived here in the Southwest. The rock art calls to me in a visual dialogue of form that I interpret into my own creations in metal. All my images are derived through meditation and this visual dialogue with the materials I use.
My sculptures include welded figurative pieces with brushed steel surfaces, powder-coated finishes, or natural rust patinas. Some pieces even include Colorado river rock or other inspiring found objects. I often use recycled materials to interpret elements of indigenous rock art into expressive figures and forms.
The Southwest’s influence is so strong that I placed the "sun dagger," from New Mexico’s Chaco Canyon. as a tattoo on the back of my neck. I also have adopted this symbol as a signature for my artwork.
