While I enjoy painting all kinds of scenery, LA is my lady.

We first met on a family vacation when I was 14. Growing up in New Jersey, I can't say I had been particularly inspired by the overcast skies and flat suburbs of the east coast. The year-round sunshine, diverse scenery and laid-back lifestyle of Southern California seemed like paradise. I was smitten.

A friend of mine said that my paintings capture "the idea of California". I like that. As anyone who has lived in LA knows, it isn't quite what you see in the movies. She's anything but an easy lover, but if you play your cards right, she might just flash you a smile.

I think Frank Sinatra said it best:

"I leave behind a part of myself whenever I leave her

But oh, when I'm back in her arms,

She smiles and then, I am home again."

Awards:

- The Boldbrush Award, October 2024 for "Last Light in the Valley" - judged by Carl Bretzke.

- First place, Daily Paintworks monthly contest, September 2024 for "Urban Twilight" - judged by Sandra Willard.

- Second place, 5th annual LPAPA "Squared" juried exhibition December, 2024 for "Whitley Heights"

- Third place, 21st annual LPAPA "Best of Plein Air" juried exhibition March, 2025 for "Gold in the Hills"

- Honorable mention, Plein Air Salon September 2024 for "Urban Twilight" - judged by Kathie Odom.

- Honorable mention, LPAPA "Less is More" juried exhibition July, 2024 for "LA Freeway II"