Later,
I returned closer to earth and to a subject that had been a passion
since childhood – aviation. My interests were primarily historical
– the golden age of air transportation and air travel in America.
In the tradition of marine artists who depict the great age of sail,
I set out to recapture the early days of a new form of transportation
that changed America forever – and to pay tribute in particular
to the local aircraft and airlines that were among the early pioneers.
In recent years, my interests have expanded to other forms of early
transportation, most notably schooners and other vessels that figured
prominently in New England maritime history. Today, living on Cape
Ann provides endless opportunities to observe vintage sailing vessels
first hand and visit the harbors and coves that have inspired American
artists for more than 200 years. Exploring the locations witnessed
by earlier artists of the region – e.g., Heade, Lane, Salmon,
Homer – provides a connection with the past and inspiration
to create new work that shows their world as it is today.
Related
in spirit are my paintings of the seashore, rocky landscapes and old
homes of Essex County and Cape Ann, which are likewise inspired by
careful observation and research.
Taken
together, my paintings reflect my broad interest in New England's
maritime, aviation and architectural heritage. Through my paintings
I try to instill a greater appreciation for the past and show the
enduring influence of the past in our life today. At the same time,
I try to suffuse my paintings with a quiet calm that provides a peaceful
respite from the hectic pace of our 21st century world
.
