Postcards from Greece - November 2021

An excerpt from Access Magazine’s November 2021 Edition

DEAR FRIENDS, 

I’ve been on my Greek sojourn almost a year and I’ve become quite fond of the brilliant colors found on my daily walks through Athens, the islands, and the mainland. Ever since childhood, no matter where I am, I wake early, enjoy the sunrise, and always look forward to the sunsets (and Greece does not disappoint). From the sprawling bougainvillea to the intense blue waters and green-covered hills, breathtaking visual stimulation abounds. 

Through my artist’s eyes, I’ve observed the clear, crisp, and fresh colors of the early morning, and have been transfixed as they become more muted yet somehow still vibrant as the day progresses. Inspired by my adventures and the Greek lifestyle in general, I’ve been busy capturing these spectacular colors in their various stages of light in my new painting series, Greek Summer. 

For those keeping up with world affairs (climate change specifically), Greece recently suffered horrific fires. Although we did not experience damages in the center of Athens, I have friends who underwent tragic losses. It was surreal, and for over a week ash filled the air leaving a thick layer of it on my terrace. My heart breaks for those affected and for Greece as a whole, as they incurred significant historical losses. Transferring these emotions onto canvas, I created another Urban Series based not only on Greece, but the effects of the fires and climate change around the world. 

This new Urban Series focuses on the relationship of concrete, steel, glass, and asphalt present in cities, as well as the smokey hues. These intentional gestural strokes highlight the use of color, shape, and texture blending into one’s existence. Conceptually, these paintings are strong, stark, and energetic, yet peaceful, sophisticated, and unified. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Greece to help with their fire relief fund. 

As I prepare for a trip home to the Bay area and with the holidays approaching, I’m grateful for the continued private commissions. Whether meeting in person or over Zoom calls, I always look forward to sharing in the excitement of a project, special event, or specific memory they’d like preserved. It’s a wonderful compliment to be asked to participate in one’s life, and I consider it an honor to be part of these personal creations that will be enjoyed for generations to come. Often a gift, I feel the gift is all mine. And lastly, this colorful time away has confirmed what a blessing it is to be an artist and the fact that beauty truly lies between the black and white.