Black & White

Acrylic and image transfer on wood.

24x48x1.50"

There is something magical about seeing a real ­geisha on the streets of Kyoto. Even amidst the sea of ­gorgeous ladies in yukata and kimono she stands out. It felt like a special and really precious experience and it is a memory that I treasure dearly which is why this painting is so special to me. It reminds me that there is magic somewhere in the world even though it feels like most of it has drained away after I left Japan.

Right now, painting the beauty of Japan helps me deal with feeling homesick for the country I had to leave behind last year.

All my life, saying goodbye has been difficult for me. The first time going to school involved huge crying fits that ended up with me throwing up, just because I had to say goodbye to my mom.

I have become better at handling goodbyes over the years but it hasn't gotten any easier.

While I was painting this piece the snow was piled high outside my studio in Canada but at the same time, in Japan, people were walking under these magical Sakura trees that were in full bloom. Every time I would think of this I felt a pang of longing but having this piece on my easel made the country I miss so dearly feel just a little bit closer.

Acrylics and gold leaf on canvas.

36x36x1.50"

Portrait painting of model in dramatic black and white with gold leaf fragmented background. The close up view of the model creates a dramatic and powerful portrait, while the fragmented background creates surface interest, in contrast with the smooth treatment of the portrait.

Digital print on paper.

15x18"

Limited edition 1 of 3.

This print is a reproduction from the B&W series, which consists of 24 pieces. The detailed pen graphics capture the balance between architectural shapes and landscape lines, evoking memories and dreams tied to specific times and places in Toronto. The original work in the B&W series was created en plein air using ink, marker, and watercolor paper. Picture size 11 x 14".
Material: 100lb cover paper.