There is inspiration in so many things; objects for their sculptural shapes and what they represent, a line in a song or a quote, a fraction of a video clip. I use objects as metaphors; the paintings are like little narratives. I suppose they are a natural extension of illustration. I act as my own client. Most of all they are about emotions and the scenes are theatrical, like sets in an opera or a play.
I have always been interested in the power of visual symbols and how they can convey such strong messages across cultures. At some level we all seem to have the same visual library that is subconscious. And then there are all the symbols that have been manufactured through history and how they tell their own stories.
The use of colour is so important to create a mood. I would like my paintings to have a timeless feel but I can see that they look nostalgic. I try to use light to create a bit of drama and a dynamic within the painting but I hope they have a bit of calm with a smile at the end of the day.
