My goal as a portrait painter is to create paintings that will stand the test of time as compelling works of art, alive with the personality of both artist and subject. I think of my work as a celebration and affirmation of life; each portrait is an adventure, exploring the unique character and personal strengths of my sitters. A love of people and a deep interest in the human experience is key to my work. It's not about how you look, it's about who you are. My training as a painter, actor and musician have increased my interest in capturing this quintessential dynamic with authority, authenticity and compassion. Over the years I've come to appreciate the transubstantiation of image to feeling inherent in a great oil-on-canvas portrait. Nothing else has the power to capture the personality and character of the subject for the ages. Portrait painting is about exploring the lyricism of character and dynamics of personality within the painted surface. More than a photograph made to look like a painting, my portraits are the real thing.