This is the artist porfolio published in the Asheville Citizen Times Newspaper on 01-24-10.I work in an abstract expressionist mode using reverse glass and cracked glass painting with acrylic paint. I use strong contrasting colors to set off a vibration in the viewer's eye. My reverse glass painting is done by first putting very abstract colors on the glass. I then scratch out the design and add contrasting color. The cracked glass starts by breaking a piece of glass and then cold-fusing the broken pieces to another piece of glass. Paint is added to the broken top pieces of glass. I scratch out the subject and then paint on the back of the glass. I have several bodies of work. That includes the “Beautifully Broken” series and “If I Was A Bi-Pod” that deal specifically with how the disabled view the world.
Why do you do what you do?
I don't have a choice. I'm unhirable. After my car accident, I felt I was put back on this planet to share my art with the world.
Tell us about your latest projects:
I am now working with my wife, Cathy, and using her hypertufa planters to make rock gardens. I then use wood found on our property and hang a reverse glass painting from it. It is very rustic and primitive and has a strong handmade feel to it.
What are you doing that no ones else is?
I haven't seen many artists using the disabled in their work. When I started painting again, I looked for anyone using the disabled in their work. After not finding any, I decided to use myself with my crutches as a subject matter.
What influences your work?
Life and the struggle to survive in a mainly nondisabled world.
When is your most creative time?
All the time. I never know when an idea is going to pop in my head. It's like magic. I sometimes wake up and write notes from my dreams.
How did you get started in your work?
After I became disabled, I needed to refocus my life. I took some mechanical drafting classes but couldn't stand the straight lines. I also took some art classes and was blown away by it all. Color, form, self-expression.
What is your muse?
Waking up every day surrounded by life itself.
Who is the artist you most admire?
My mom, Audrey. She could draw anything she saw. Being a single working mom, she never had a chance to pursue art. To view more work go to
http://www.wildlifeartglass.com click on Reverse Glass Painting
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