Artist Statement

I have been drawn to art since childhood through my interest in colors and design. Early on, simple and beautiful book illustrations by Beatrix Potter as well as those in Winnie the Pooh inspired me.

As a child I enjoyed drawing the human figure and face. Growing up as an Asian in Michigan, I developed an acute awareness of the differences among humans. This contributed to my desire to learn about a variety of cultures and subcultures, whose motifs, themes, and images I sometimes blend into my art.

I love nature's beautiful shapes, forms, and colors as exhibited in its landscapes and skies. Despite its challenges, painting 'en plein air' is truly rewarding.

I create works which incorporate themes, content, and styles from both the Asian and Western traditions of art. Generally, I am attracted to the art of Europe and North America from the 15th to the 19th century. I especially enjoy the works of the Renaissance. Some specific artists whose works I admire include Vermeer, Michelangelo, Da Vinci, Caravaggio, William Merritt Chase, John Singer Sargent, and J. W. Waterhouse.