Landscape And Still Life

Aurora Over Lyona Road"
Acrylic on canvas
36"X48"
2024

This is my third time revisiting the Townville tree upon great inspiration by the stunning photography of Jade Roberts.

She captured the town's prominent tree against the rare and unusual Aurora Borealis skies that have been showing in the greater portion of North America this past year. With the uncommon eclipse and now the abnormal aurora showing themselves, I wanted to document these light phenomenas through my painting.

"American Angel"
Acrylic on Canvas
36"X36"
Custom framed by
The Red White and Glue Company
2024"

Image inspired by a photo taken by Sal Re who stood beside artist Saturday, July 13th, in Butler, PA. Right before the assassination attempt on Donald Trump, the signature giant flag that waves from cranes at his rallies got tangled up. The flag had to be lowered and fixed before the speech began. Upon retrospect, many people who attended feel this tied up flag had the appearance on an angel of protection.

Blessings and healing to those who were injured and the family of the man who lost his life.

"Light Eclipsed"
Acrylic On Canvas
36"X48"
Custom Framed by
The Red White and Glue Company
2024

Observation piece of the April 8, 2024 solar eclipse through the clouds from Saxonburg, Pennsylvania. This phenomenon perfectly illustrates when two opposing forces intersect. Especially and obviously the natures of light and darkness. 

Morning Crossing
Acrylic on birch
wood panel
18"X24"
Custom framed by
The Red White and Glue Co.
2024

Landscape looking over the Monongahela River towards the Birmingham Bridge as the sun rises. 

Forgetting
Acrylic on 
framed canvas panel
10.5"X8.5"
2024

Small-scale knife painting of impressions of a grouping of forget me nots.

Misty Morning
Acrylic on 
framed canvas panel
10.5"X8.5"
2024

Small-scale painting capturing a sunrise gently filtering rainbow light through the trees and mist on a cool morning . 

Sun Blossom
Acrylic on 
framed canvas panel
10.5"X8.5"
2024

Small-scale painting capturing a sunrise blossoming through a line of trees off the Butler Freeport trail in Cabot, Pennsylvania.

 

Break Of Day
Acrylic on 
framed canvas panel
10.5"X8.5"
2024

Small-scale painting capturing the break of day over a harvested cornfield outside of the little town of Saxonburg, Pennsylvania. 

Sunrise In The Valley
Acrylic on 
framed canvas panel
10.5"X8.5"
2024

Small-scale painting capturing a vibrant sunrise in a Pennsylvanian valley teeming with wildflowers.

Ombre' Sky
Acrylic on 
framed canvas panel
10.5"X8.5"
2024

Small-scale painting of a deep sunset sky with silhouettes of trees in the foreground. 

Trails Of Light
Acrylic on 
framed canvas panel
10.5"X8.5"
2024

Small-scale painting of a rolling Pennsylvanian landscape filtered by a richly colorful sunset sky. 

A Touch Of Gold
Acrylic on 
framed canvas panel
10.5"X8.5"
2024

Small-scale painting of the moments before a sunset fades away into dusk, expressing a shining golden band of light at the horizon.

Sunset Ridge
Acrylic on 
framed canvas panel
10.5"X8.5"
2024

Small-scale painting capturing a vibrant sunset kissing the Pennsylvanian ridges.

Everlasting
Acrylic on
birch wood panel
20"X24" 
2023 

Impasto painting of a grouping of dried Everlastings. Widespread and wild across the Mediterranean, Helichrysum, also known as Immortelle or Everlasting, what appears as one flower is actually a cluster of minute flowers. Everlasting gets its name from the dry, papery phyllaries (specialized leaves) that surround the base of each flower cluster. These persist long after the flowers have dropped off, resembling petals on dried blossoms. The up-close focus of the central flower's petals reaches out to all sides, imbuing limitless expansion while the texture of the piece speaks of freedom.

"The everlasting God, the Lord,
The Creator of the ends of the earth,
neither faints nor is weary.
His understanding is unsearchable.
He gives power to the weak,
and to those who have no might He increases strength."
Isaiah 40: 28-29

Christmas Glow
Acrylic on wood panel
30"X40"
Custom framed by
The Red White And Glue Co.
2023

Subject matter in the spirit of the season. A lone pine tree wrapped in light glows through a dormant snowy night. There is an interplay of dramatic warm and cool tones coupled with moving paint texture to tingle the senses.

Summertime In The Country
Acrylic on canvas
24"X36"Custom Framed by
The Red White And Glue Co.
2023

A powerful sunset after a rain shower juxtaposed against wild growth. Captured in a field right outside of Saxonburg, Pennsylvania.

Light Overcoming
Acrylic On Canvas
30"X48"
Custom Framed By
The Red White And Glue Co.
2023

Observational painting capturing light exposing the surrounding rough textures of cave walls and brilliantly making a way through the dark passages of The Laurel Caverns. These caves are located in the Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania. 

"But all things that are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is light." Ephisians 5:13

Sunset View From PNC Park
Acrylic On Official MLB Homeplate
Custom Designed Stand by
The Red White And Glue Co.
2023 

A view looking above PNC Park and beyond towards the skyline of Pittsburgh amidst a brilliant sunet.  This piece speaks of the iconic perspective from the ball field as well as the lights and beauty that are so prevalent throughout the Steel City.

Sunrise In Saxonburg
Acrylic On Canvas
20"X30"
Custom Framed By
The Red White And Glue Co.
2023

A revisit of Saxonburg's defining feature in a new light a week before the Mingle on Main season begins. 

In 1837 the doors of Saxonburg's famous "little white church" opened for services. The proposed planning for its construction were designed and donated by John Roebling. The steeple and bell were added in 1863 and a large four-faced tower clock was added in 1919. This building stands at the highest area on Main Street and is the focal point of the town to this day.

Memories Revisited
Acrylic on canvas 
36"X48"
2023

There is somethig about the daffodil in the early stages of springtime. They always come in a grouping, and are reflective of the past as an annual grower while simultaneously revealing the new things blossoming. The fresh whites, yellows, and oranges of the daffodil's petals soaking in the rays of the sun can be the perfect expression of life beginning anew; which is the inspiration for this large depiction of them moving and flowing in bright, expressive texture. 

 

Light On White Birch
Acrylic on birch
wood panel
24"X36"
Custom Framed by
the Red White And Glue Co.
2023

Early morning light shining brightly through a forest of white birch trees.

Evening
Acrylic on birch
wood panel
11"X14"
2023

Small split-panorama paintings depicting a striking yet soft Pennsylvania sunset.

Extended Light
Acrylic on canvas
30"X48"
2022

The delicate qualities of light glowing through a dark haze amidst the danglings of a pineduring the dormant winter season.

Sunset On Lyona Road
Acrylic on canvas
36"X48"
2022

Painting of a uniquely prominent tree that sits on Lyona Road; which is right outside the very tiny town of Townville, Pennsylvania. There is a recognized character and ancient presence to this tree that is often admired by those who live in the area as well as those passing through.

Evelyn's Flowers
Acrylic on canvas
36"X36"
Custom framed by
The Red White and Glue Co.
2022

The subject matter is inspired by an amazing photographer in Sleepy Hollow, New York, who just happens to be Kling's brother, Mark Renaudin. The grouping of daisies was captured in the first breathes of morning light during the late days of October in his wife Evelyn's garden.

Presence
Acrylic on
wood panel
30"X40"
Custom framed by
The Red White And Glue Co.
2022

Painting capturing the phenomenon of powerful light shining through a small opening in a shrouded wood when the sun has reached high noon. The natural highlights in the walnut frame continue to speak of the qualites and power of light.

Bloom
Acrylic on canvas
18"X24"
Custom Framed by
The Red White And Glue Co.
2022

Still life of the pique morning light hitting hibiscus as they bloom.

EOD Memorial
Acrylic on luan
wood panel
24"X40"
2022

Depiction of the EOD Memorial Wall located at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida. This monument honors EOD (Explosive Ordnance Depot/Disposal) technicians who gave their lives in the performance of their duties. The names on the wall date back to the formation of EOD in World War II. The basic structure consists of four cenotaphs; one for each branch of military service, Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Air Force. A bronze tablet with the names of fallen EOD warriors is inscribed and attached to each cenotaph.

Every year, on the first Saturday in May, the EOD Memorial Ceremony is held to commemorate fallen EOD technicians to recognize and preserve the legacy of the service and sacrifices of our fallen warriors and their families.

The original painting was donated, featured, and auctioned out for the 2022 ceremony to fund the ongoing care and maintenance of the site.

Reflections Of Light
18"X24"
Acrylic on canvas
Custom framed by 
The Red White And Glue Co.
2022

Still life painting of a lamp juxtaposed against stained glass. Observed from a setting in the dining area of the historic Thistledown at Seger House bed and breakfast in Ligonier, Pennsylvania.

"No one, when he has lit a lamp, covers it with a vessel or puts it under a bed, but sets it on a lampstand, that those who enter may see the light. For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither anything hid, that shall not be known
and come abroad"

A Hidden View
Acrylic on birch
wood panel
24"X30"
2022

Painting looking on from an upper room in a neighborhood in the city of Pittsburgh known as the Mexican War Streets. Originally named the "Buena Vista Tract", the area is a historic district in the Central Northside neighborhood. Here, the last rays of sunlight are departing, subtly revealing the street and buildings beyond, just making out the West End Bridge sitting on the horizon.

Forget Me Not
Acrylic on wood panel
24"X48"
Custom framed by
​The Red White And Glue Co.
2022

A grouping of wild forget me nots described richly in free and fresh fashion.

"Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you. "
Isaiah 49:15

Pansy Petals
Acrylic on wood panel
12"X12"
2022

Palette knife painting of vibrant pansy petals.

Golden Ratio
Acrylic on canvas
16"X20"
Custom framed by 
The Red White And Glue Co.
2022

Painting of vibrant sunflower receiving light from a powerful sun. The natural Fibonacci sequence within the sunflower pod speaks of constant reoccuring patterns throughout all of creation, including the designs weaved throughout ancient architecture, which can be admired from an ariel perspective.The famous Fibonacci sequence has captivated mathematicians, artists, designers, and scientists for centuries. Also known as the Golden Ratio, its ubiquity and astounding functionality in nature suggests its importance as a fundamental characteristic of the Universe.
Sunflowers provide a great example of these spiraling patterns. Typically, seeds are produced at the center, and then migrate towards the outside to fill all the space. In some cases, the seed heads are so tightly packed that the total number can get quite high; as many as 144 or more. And when counting these spirals, the total tends to match a Fibonacci number. Interestingly, a highly irrational number is required to optimize filling, namely one that will not be well represented by a fraction. Piece painted thickly to illustrate the energy of the moving sun rays; that 'sun in the eyes' feeling.

The Path
Acrylic on wood panel
36"X48"
2021

Large scale work capturing fractured light on a path in the woods. Upon the first observation, the greenery was just beginning to bud. The sky juxtaposed with the many still bare branches creates an almost stained glass effect, but abstracted.

"Her ways are pleasant ways
And all her paths are peace."

"But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn,
That shines brighter and brighter until the full day."

A View Looking Out From
Inside My Old Apartment
Acrylic on canvas
24"X24"
2021

A view looking out a window from inside an apartment once lived in. Piece was captured exactly within one years time. Painting began by observation, each session adding a fracture of a perspective. The artist moved away during process, so observation was laced with the impression of memory.

"For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little."

Light In A Dark Winter
Acrylic on canvas
30"X40"
2021

A view from an upper room of a light shining in the dark depths of a dormant winter.

For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.
2 Corinthians 4:6

No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a jar or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light.
Luke 8:16

Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.”
John 8:12

The night is almost gone, and the day is near. Therefore let us lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.
Romans 13:12

Providence
Acrylic on canvas
16"X20"
2020

Look up to what is higher than you and believe that help is here.

Mine Eyes Have Seen The Glory
Acrylic on birch
wood panel
36"X48"
​2020

The time in which this hillside landscape is captured is just as the dawn is breaking. The rainbow around the sun is an amplified expression; the inspiration of the light phenomenon image coming from a vision in a dream.

Go Fish
Acrylic on Luan
wood panel
24"X48"
​2020

"Speak to the earth, and it will teach you; and the fish of the sea will explain to you." Job 12:8

Welcome To Saxonburg

Vettori's Farm
Acrylic on birch
wood panel
12"X12"
2020

Off of Pittsburgh street in the little town of Saxonburg, Pennsylvania is Vettori's Farm. The white barn stands boldly amidst the daily labors of a family that has been cultivating these grounds for generations.

Roebling Park
Acrylic on canvas
24"X30"
2021

Tonal piece of the quaint Roebling park that is tucked on the northeast side of the little town of Saxonburg, Pennsylvania. John Roebling, one of the founders of the town, was known for inventing the steel rope, which he used to design the Brooklyn Bridge. His workshop from 1840 continues to stand today as the centerpiece of the park, along with the Saxonburg Museum, a downsized replica of the Brooklyn Bridge, a beautiful gazebo, veterans memorials, gardens, and Cooper Hall. During community days, residents gather here to have festivals and local music events. It is not uncommon to walk by and witness a wedding ceremony and reception on this picturesque park. Working with the warm and cool aspects of black and white, light and space is established through the tertiaries.

Batch
Acrylic on birch
wood panel
8"X12"
2020

Krause House
Acrylic on canvas
24"X30"
2022

A historic building set on the main street of the little town of Saxonburg, PA. Originally built by Ernst Mudder as the "Union Hotel" in 1863, it was later remodeled by Robert Krause in 1896 to work as both his residence on the east side and storefront on the west side. This year however the structure is now home to Small Business Accounting, owned and operated by Angela Vogel Parisi.
Pictured is Angela standing where the painting now hangs in a room on the east side.

Miller Tire
Acrylic on canvas
24"X30"
Custom framed by
The Red White And Glue Co.
2023

This building sits just outside the town on South Rebecca Street outside of Saxonburg. Many years ago it used to be a tiny school house until it became an auto-repair shop in the 1950s. For the past nine years to present owner Denise Miller has continued the location's theme going; but has built an incredible tire business of her own, expanding upon the orginal space while still keeping the integrity of its unique history. 

Saxonburg Coffee And Tea
Acrylic on birch
wood panel
12"X12"
2020

Conversation and warm aromas are continuely found nestled in the center of the quaint historical business district at Saxonburg Coffee And Tea.

Heritage Wine Cellars
Acrylic on birch
wood panel
8"X12"
​2020

Tucked away in the heart of the small and historic town of Saxonburg Pennsylvania is the charming barnwood structure housing one of the Heritage Wine Cellars locations. The family tradition of Heritage is held by the 7th Generation of Viticulture and 3rd Generation of Vintners, owners Matthew and Joshua Bostwick. Selling ward-winning fruit wines harvested by the great freshwater lakes in the city of Erie northwest of this site, the grapes are grown in one of the largest grape growing regions east of the Rockies, and the fourth largest Concord grape growing region in the United States.

Amelia Roebling Knoch House
8"X12"
Acrylic on birch
wood panel
2020

Located directly accross the United Memorial chuch office on Main Steet, the charming Victorian facade of the Amelia Roebling Knoch house sets the visual standard for what is to follow in the little town of Saxonburg. Amelia Roebling Knoch was the daughter of Carl Roebling, John Roebling's older brother who cofounded Saxonburg. She was the last direct decendent of the famous family to live in Saxonburg when she died at the age of 96 in 1933. She married Herman Knoch, and their son William and his wife Eva donated land to establish Knoch High School.

Du-Co
Acrylic on birch
wood panel
6"X12"
2020

Set back in an open lawn on Rebecca Street sits the manufacturing plant of Du-Co Ceramics. This unique brick building with its bright white pillars and glistening fountain at the head of the entrance is a fun site to look at when entering the little town of Saxonburg.

Hotel Saxonburg
Acrylic on birch
wood panel
8"X12"
2020

 

Sitting in the heart of Saxonburg's main street is a hotel that has been a town centerpiece since 1835. Earlier names were the Vogeley House, the Belvedere House, the Laube House, and the Central Hotel. With a restaurant and outdoor dining attached to the building, the site cultivates an inviting air even when one strolls by. There is often live music played in the garden or on the sidewalk as the evening decends; soft conversations and the ting of silverware can be heard amidst the melodies. The small hazy lights strung throughout tickle the eyes as the warm antique lamps command the entrance. It really is amazing how this piece of history continues to emit so much life to this day.

An Evening At Hotel Saxonburg
Acrylic on birch
wood panel
30"X40"
2022

A depiction of the little town of Saxonburg's charming epicenter, Hotel Saxonburg. Pictured above with piece is the owner of the historic hotel and restaurant, Judy Ferree. This painting is to be hung in the lobby, seen as soon as you come through the entrance. Containing five rooms to stay at decorated in its original fashion circa 1832, many historic walks and tours come through to not only admire the beauty of its presentation and architecture, but to also enjoy a delicious meal inside or on the relaxing outdoor patio.

St. Luke's
8"X12"
Acrylic on birch
wood panel
​2021

Sitting boldly on Main Street in the small and historic town of Saxonburg Pennsylvania is the historic stone structure of St. Luke's Evangelical Lutheran Church. This center of worship was founded in 1869, when several of the English speaking members of an older church near Hannahstown withdrew to form the congregation. This very church began to define the town into two sections as it established a cemetery next to the existing cemetery and was marked as "St. Luke's Sections". The "Old Saxonburg" Cemetery was a creation of the late 1860's as a borough cemetery. By the early 1900's more land was added to Saxonburg Cemetery and the sections are identified as "New Saxonburg". Additional burial area has been added to the west of "New Saxonburg Section 4" in the early 1980's.

Mimi's Memories Antique Shop
Acrylic on birch
wood panel
8"X12"
2022

Painting of a beautifully preserved building on main street in the little town of Saxonburg that retains its authetic character. Once home to Edward Napoleon Bonaparte Mershon and Homer Lafayette Mershon, who were both brothers and doctors. Their office was in the back and their drugstore in the front; with a living space was upstairs. Edward Mershon's daughter, Edna, lived there after her father's death. She never married and let the home fall into disrepair.\n

Jenny Slater Nelson, a local antiques collector who loves history saved the house from demolition. Now it's Mimi's Memories Antique shop. She rescued the doctors' cabinets, bottles and medical equipment and recreated the front room as it would have been in the doctors' lifetime at the turn of the 20th century. She restored the back room with an exam table, instruments and the doctor's original desk. There are even records of the babies they delivered. It cost $2 if you had your baby in the office but went up to as much as $10 if you needed Dr. Mershon to come to your home and deliver.

Kelly's Restaurant
Acrylic on birch
wood panel
8"X12"
​2022

Kelly's Family Restaurant, a little diner sitting alongside Main Street, is a regular stop for any who live or are passing through Saxonburg. This charming and homey nexus is a staple to the small town community.

Saxonburg Volunteer
Fire Departmet
Acrylic on birch
wood panel
​8"X12"
2022

What small town does not marvel over, center around, and honor its Fire department? For those who live locally, the siren can be heard throughout the day where residents see the heroic volunteers head out and care for local emergencies. Formed in 1944, Saxonburg Volunteer Fire Company boasts a fleet of 9 Firefighting Apparatus, 4 EMS vehicles and Two state-of-the Art Stations, as well as over 300 active members and well over 500 social members. The organization is also a staple center for community events and fundraisers.

PNC Park perspective
Acrylic on official MLB home plate
20"X20"
Custom display stand created by
The Red White And Glue Co.
2022

Iconic perspective from the stands at PNC Park of the ball field and beyond towards the city of Pittsburgh. The pentagon shape of the homeplate is echoed within the painting's composition of the field in the foreground. More defined portions of this work were addressed with the brush and larger aspects were described using thick layers of paint with a palette knife to create a push-pull effect with the eye. This piece speaks of the moving beauty of the city and the picturesque perspectives that are so prevalent throughout Pittsburgh.

La Prima
Acrylic on birch
wood panel
30"X40"
2021

Tucked away on 21st street in the notable Strip District of Pittsburgh is La Prima Espresso co. Betwixt other shops along the historic industrial block, the business was originally planned to sell and service commercial espresso machines but it was not long till the showroom grew into a full-service espresso bar, where it became a must-stop Pittsburgh destination. 

Go Fish
Acrylic on wood panel
24"X48"
​2020

​"Speak to the earth, and it will teach you; and the fish of the sea will explain to you." Job 12:8

Cherry Picking
Acrylic On Masonite
Wood Panel
​20"X24"
​2019

Still life of a grouping of Rainier Cherries.

Crocadiles
Acrylic on Masonite
wood panel
​24"X28"
​2018

Avocados painted from life.

Roots
Acrylic on Masonite
wood panel
​30"X40"
Custom Framed by 
​Craig Barron
​2016

A bundle of root vegetables painted from life.

Bushels
Acrylic on Luan
wood panel
​30"X40"
Custom Framed by
Craig Barron
​2016

An apple display painted from life.

Spears
Acrylic on Luan
wood panel
​30"X40"
Custom Framed By
Craig Barron
​2016

A capturing of green, purple, and white asparagus painted from life.

Berries
Acrylic on Luan
wood panel
​30"X40"
Custom Framed by 
​Craig Barron​
​2016

Blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, grapes, and strawberries painted from life.

Heirloom
Acrylic on Masonite
wood panel
24"X48"
​Custom Framed by 
​Craig Barron​
2016

Heirloom tomatoes painted from life.

Big Small Town
Acrylic on canvas
36"X60"
​2017

Viewpoint of Pittsburgh from a residential portion of the Hill District, south east of downtown. This particular image resonates a strong aspect of the city's character, which is its residential areas. One of the most unique aspects of Pittsburgh's identity is how it is defined through the small surrounding neighborhoods and the close-knit interconnections of the people between those communities. From the north, south, east and west corners of the three rivers, each neighborhood has its own dynamic character; yet there is a unanimous pride for Pittsburgh as a whole. This city is filled with enthusiasm for everyone a part of it and the energy here is infectious. From the intense workings of the city's urban restoration to earning the title as the nation's epicenter in the development of cutting edge technology, Pittsburgh has set itself a part because of its open and accepting energy between people within an intimate environment. 

Steel Tower
​Acylic on birch
wood panel
​16"X20"
​2018

The heralding subject is the infamous centerpiece of Pittsburgh; the UPMC Steel Tower. The dark steel building in the murky night sky juxtaposed with the cherry blossom trees, which were hit with an intense spotlight, gives a strangely surreal quality that is unmistakably Pittsburgh. With the stark white branches coalescing with the tower, there is a lovely natural balance between the negative and positive shapes throughout the composition.  

Pansy
Acrylic on Masonite
wood panel
28"X28"
2019

Painting of a pansy. Image inspired by reflection on Modernist painter Georgia O'Keefe, after the striking work "Black Pansy and Forget-Me-Nots"

Stargazer
Acrylic on Masonite
wood panel
48"X48"
​2019

Large tondo painting of a stargazer lily.

Ubiquitous
​Acrylic on Masonite
wood panel
30"X48"
Custom framed by 
Craig Barron
2018

This still life embodies the seemingly consuming character of modern day society. On display. Surface based. Plastic. Alongside others yet isolated. Coming from a box. Behind glass. Branded. For sale. Limited. Moving manufactured parts to build an identity for an agenda.

Walk of Stars
​Acrylic on Luan
wood panel
24"X36"
Custom Framed by
The Red White And GLue Co.
​2017

A moment in time captured of a bustling evening at the Kelly Strayhorn Theatre, located on the east end of the city of Pittsburgh . The high contrast of colors reflected from the lights celebrates that special energy of a night out in the city.

Whirlwind
​Acrylic on bristol paper
​9"X12"
2017

Painting capturing significant tornado.

Significance In Silhouette
Acrylic on Luan
wood panel
24"X48"
Custom framed by
​Craig Barron
​2019

Image is inspired from childhood memory.
​
"One early morning, my brother Nathan and I were playing outside and collecting rocks in a worn plot of land next door where a trailer had just moved out of. The grass was all dewey and the sun was rising and shining through this giant pine tree that was at the end of the yard. All the dead pine needles laying beneath the silhouetted tree burned orange where the sun touched them. Yet it was cool out. And that is what I remember. Though the moment was not unusual or seemingly significant, the whole memory stands out in my mind very clearly and I have remembered it throughout my life. This made me contemplate how each of us have our own subconscious significant moments embedded inside; experiences expressing themselves years later either by dream or living reminder. And the most beautiful thing about how our minds are designed is that sometimes all you need to make a lasting impression is something as simple and available as the light."

Carmella's
Acrylic on masonite
wood panel
38"X38"
Custom framed by 
Craig Barron
​2018

A bursting sunset on a Friday night captured right outside of Carmella's; a restaurant and bar that sits in the heart of Pittsburgh's Southside. I delight in describing the distinction of heavy contrasts, so having a structured urban silhouette in the foreground against the colorful freedom of the sky works to amplify that expression. 

Light and Hibiscus On Kirk Avenue
​Acrylic on masonite wood panel
36"X40"
Custom framed by
Craig Barron

Painting inspired by a residential area in the South Hills of Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. Behind the house, the terrain dramatically drops and opens to a  broad open expanse that welcomes an intense amount of light. From the front of the building, the view of the warm radiating light conflicting against the cool casting shadows immediately brings a powerful moving energy. 

December Fire
Acrylic on masonite
wood panel
36"X48"
Custom framed by
Craig Barron
​2018

Bronze pole against a dormant field during winter time at the Montour trail, located southwest of Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. It was one of those rare and short lived December afternoons where the sun was so golden and bright it felt as though it was making up for lost time from all the gray of the season. The path is lined for miles with these tall bronze poles that used to follow the railway. Formally the Montour railroad, this historic site is now the longest suburban rail-trail in the U.S. These landmarks and their blunt refraction of the sun'slight  perfectly capture and echo the embedded workings of the past while still representing and reflecting all the life happening around it. 

Two Roads Diverged In A Yellow Wood
Acrylic on canvas
24"X24"
2019

A diverging pathway on the Emerld  View Trail in the Mount Washington area of Pittsburgh. 

​Winter On Balcony
Acrylic on canvas
18"X24"
2019

A Pittsburgh balcony revisited; this time covered in a blanket of snow. 

Sunset On Balcony
​Acrylic on birch
wood panel
18"X24"
​2018

Viewpoint from balcony looking upon the town of Carrick Pennsylvania. Plein air piece capturing the fleeting moments of the waning light. 

Birmingham Cemetary
Acrylic on pine
wood panel
​18"X24"
2017

Amongst the rolling hills south of the city of Pittsburgh there is a valley that opens up to a peaceful little resting place known as the Birmingham Cemetery. Plein air painting was inspired by pure and direct reaction using a pallette knife. 

91.3 Summer Music Festival 2018
​Acrylic on canvas
24"X36"
Custom framed by 
Craig Barron
2018

Live painting  of the performing stage and its surroundings during the 2018 91.3  Summer Music Festival. Piece was worked throughout the shows from the beginning to the end, which was a 6 hour span of time. It was an extremely hot day scaling up to 102 degrees. Image works to the energy of that heat and light along with the frequencies, movement, harmonies, people, and joy of the moment. Support and invest in all the special and beautiful things your community is doing and share it with people around you, it's the best way to make memories. 

Maple Springs Gazebo
​Acrylic on canvas
​20"X24"
​2018

Plein air painting of the Maple Springs Gazebo in South Park Pennsylvania. Out of the nine County parks, South Park is the second largest. Many of the park's features, such as the Maple Springs Gazebo featured in this painting, were built during the Great Depression by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Empty Next
​Oil on canvas
36"X48"
Custom framed by
Craig Barron
​2016

A concentrated viewpoint of an abandoned warehouse in the small industrial town of Turtle creek Pennsylvania. There is a combination of detailed brush work and a subtle application of paint with the palette knife that works towards a sense of energy fading. This painting is inspired by the concept of entropy; where an isolated system creates an equilibrium that adapts and grows though time. However, painting is also designed to strike on a level of humanity. There is an expression of a complex history, lost hope, and a limited perspective of the future; yet life goes on. Here is a depiction of the mind, pathology, and the impact an environment has on the mental state over time.

Seeing Through
​Acrylic on canvas
16"X16"
Handmade wooden frame by artist
​2018

This abstract image was derived from an observed source; a glass block window . The subject was inspired by its viewpoint as this piece is looking out from the inside. These industrial style windows are composed of layers of glass with the exposed surface often undulating. When attempting to see through, what lies on the other side is a distorted visual. This distortion is emoted as a parallel in communicating the psychology of perception. The artistic rendering takes the disfigurement a step further by filtering a human impression on the visual; physically expressing the psychological, or, in purest Abstract Expressionist reform, the spiritual. To complete the concept,  a frame was built in to the panel using recycled barn wood and mason nails; an imperfect concrete exterior holding everything (the self) together. 

North Park
​Acrylic on pine
wood panel​
​16"X20"
2016

Viewpoint of a creek in North Park Pennsylvania, off the valley of Leek. The paint was applied in a gestural manner over a four hour period. This plein air work focuses on the perception of movement, life, color, depth, and the emotional human response within an uninterrupted moment.

Frick Park
​Acrylic on birch
wood panel​
​16"X20"
2016

Viewpoint of a trail in the deep woods of Frick Park just east of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

McConnells Mill
​Acrylic on birch
wood panel​
16"X20"
​2016

Schenley Park
​Acrylic on birch
wood panel​
​16"X20"
2016

Viewpoint of the Cathedral of Learning through a shady enclosure of Pittsburgh's Schenley Park.

Highland Park
​Acrylic on birch
wood panel
​16"X20"
Custom Framed by
Craig Barron
​2016

Viewpoint of an extremely bright day in the center of Pittsburgh's Highland Park by the fountain and garden area.

Westinghouse Castle
​Acylic on birch
wood panel​
​16"X20"
​2016

Viewpoint of an overcast day in Wilmerding Pennsylvania of the forgotten Westinghouse castle.

Err In Ways, Stumble In Judgement
19"X25"
Colored pencil and oil on illustration board
19"X25"
2015

Painting invoking the concept of "line of sight", where, through forced perspective, the human condition is described through a personal viewpoint. However, to push that intimacy, there is a manipulation of the focus through how paint and color is handled. Certain areas are purposefully paid more attention to with detail while other spots throughout the composition are handled minimally. 

Excuses
​Acrylic on birch
wood panel
​16"X16"
​2016

A moment in time captured of a band playing at the longest standing blues venue in the city of Pittsburgh: Excuses Bar. There is an apparent sense of history within this space that expresses a charmingly strong mixture of wild fun. The vibrant colors of the night are melded with the continual spaces of fractured light throughout the composition to convey the resonating sounds and rocking atmosphere.

Steel Mill
​Oil on canvas
18"X24"
Custom Framed by
Karen Renaudin
​2014

Landscape of a rainy day at the intrepid USS Steel Mill; located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This man-made system is constantly in motion and has naturally separated itself within its own environment. Observing as an organism outside the enclosed organization, one can immediately recognize the change in the air, the color in the sky, and the affect on the earth and plants. There is strong unusual entropy captured and, for better or for worse, the environment adapts and remains in an altered motion.

Balance
​Oil on canvas
​16"X20"
Custom Framed by
Karen Renaudin
2015

Painting utilizing a push-pull effect by handling medium in a physical way. Everything inorganic, man-made, is rendered in fine detail whereas the sky, the natural subject, is handled gesturally with a palette knife. The duel approaches work loudly together to create an ironically pleasant balance. 

Where The Sidewalk Continues
​Oil on canvas
​12"X12"
​2015

Entropy craves a completion from state to state and functions from a given initial state to a given final state; whether the process is reversible or irreversible in an isolated system. Here, this sidewalk block illustrates said isolated system. The area itself has become it's own little environment as a result of the continuous effect weight, weather, and pressure have dispensed on it. Within this space the energy flow never ceases, but adapts, changes and transforms in its own circumstances.

Past Uncovered
​Acrylic on bristol paper
11"X14"
​2015

This piece represents the emulsion of the historic and contemporary characteristics of the city of Pittsburgh. Observed in the small town of Turtle Creek located east of the three rivers, the fixated viewpoint of exposed roadway captures the spirit of an era often forgotten but pivotal in the Pennsylvanian industrial revolution. In this specific area, hours of labor took place establishing train tracks for interstate commerce, developing up and coming technology, and establishing advanced urban development in the namesake of George Westinghouse’s advancements and Andrew Carnegie's steel mill. The more recently placed asphalt framing the ancient brick roadway tells a story of not only the timeline of the terrain, but also the divergent approaches different generations take to build their residence. Here there is a hanging but implicated possibility of a superior coordination between the two perspectives to sustain the past, but embrace the future. 

Don't Look Back
​Oil on canvas
​30"X40"
​2015

An expression of space and time on a personal level. Everything outside of the rear view mirror, what lies ahead, is cooler and obstructed; whereas the area within the mirror, the perspective of the past, is glowing and warped within the distance. The viewer automatically becomes the subject; placed within a space that can allow for one to either be living in the past, present, or future. Where are you?

Indian Summer
​Acrylic on wood panel
18"X24"
​2017

Autumnal still life.

Sinking
​Oil on Luan
wood panel
​24"X30"
2010

Still life painting intended to stimulate a human emotion from a set of inanimate, almost boring, subject matter. By placing the items chaotically throughout the picture plane, composition strives to overwhelm the viewer with an acute sense of too much happening at once.