How I Became an Artist

I am a native Californian, born in San Francisco and have since continuously resided in northern California. Although I showed artistic talent at an early age, my interest in fine art and watercolors did not emerge until I developed graphic art skills, primarily creating Architectural Renderings. Before CAD software had become widespread, this talent was in high demand by architects, builders, and developers who needed visual aids in their project presentations. I found this work naturally utilized my education at San Jose State University, where my emphasis had been in architecture, drafting and engineering. Although I never pursued fine art as a source of primary income after graduation, my love for expression through transparent watercolors remained. While I was developing my career as a city and regional planner, my artistic sideline evolved into an inspiring and challenging hobby. Eventually, I was encouraged to expand my talent by a gallery owner in Mendocino and started selling paintings there and in Tiburon. My forte is my ability to create detailed paintings using transparent watercolors rather then resorting to the less challenging opaque media.

My Style and Current Plans

Over the years, my style evolved from strictly architectural renderings to scenic landscapes that pay tribute to the natural beauty of California and other states. My favorite subjects include the Golden Gate Bridge, scenes of San Francisco, sea gulls, weathered barns, old cars and varied nostalgic subject matter. Each painting I create is unique with its own story and personality. I have painted many subjects over the years but the "City by the Bay" remains my most cherished source of inspiration.

Today, I have retired from my career in city planning and decided to focus on painting with a new approach. In the past, most of my paintings sold off the drawing board to close friends or coworkers. With this website, I am hoping to showcase and share my work with the Internet community. Please feel free to browse and comment on my work.

My Affiliations

Following are a list of links to the various art associations that I am affiliated with.