In my studio, I look through old photographs for that hint of emotion that I connect with. I further develop with sketches, values studies, and possibly research. I imagine a narrative —through the lens of my own history, relationships, culture, ancestors -- seen through the themes and ideas in the history of art. Figures are based on people I may have known or aspire to know. The means is a traditional method of oil painting, expressing personal storytelling, the intensity of relationships between people and their surroundings.  I am interested in the emotion that emerges, whether we want it to be known or not. My figures are real people, letting their true selves peek out.