My paintings are representational and my work is often compared to Edward Hopper’s. The canvas offers me the space to freely create narratives, constantly searching for a balance between realistic and imagined scenarios. I want the viewer to enter the scene, engage with the figures and take ownership of the story. l suggest stories based on my photographic images as well as the more ephemeral memories of my family, friends and strangers.

I find inspiration by following light. My iPhone and camera are always close at hand. I take photos that tend toward the theatric where light consolidates or isolates people. I tend to take photos of people going about their daily activities or grabbing a cup of coffee. Sometimes I stumble upon groups of people arranged just so, sometimes I get into a long conversation and then take a series of photos. My paintings are an interpretation of several photos, memories and a narrative.

The prize after taxes would be closer to $18,750. Create large scale paintings of figures interacting based on paintings on paper done at residency. Month 1: Residency in Tuscany/Umbria, Italy at a residency (Art Center Padula, Sienna Art Center or La Baldi.) Cost of Residency & Travel 1-Month Residency Fee (incl. spouse/partner) $2,300 – $3,100 Roundtrip Airfare (IAD to Florence/Rome) $700 – $1,200 Travel Incidentals & expenses $1500. Bethesda, MD 1 yr. studio rent/supplies $13,000.