Born in South Fremantle and now residing in Cowaramup, my artistic journey began in Perth, influenced by my immigrant parents. My journey traverses the disciplines of engineering, drawing, film, and finally, the realms of realism portraiture. Each phase has been a chapter in my ongoing quest to explore the nuanced narratives hidden within us all.
My early affinity for figurative drawing evolved during my years in high school and at university. Despite the rigors of academia and later, the demands of a career in civil construction, the call of creative expression remained persistent. It led me on a journey to the New York Film Academy, where the bustling streets of New York City and the endless possibilities of storytelling through film captivated my spirit.
Returning to Australia, my creative focus shifted back to the tactile world of drawing and painting. The rediscovery of my passion for drawing at the Fremantle Arts Centre and a pivotal oil painting workshop with Drewfus Gates introduced me to the world of realism portraiture—a realm where the stories etched in every line and shadow on a face became my canvas.
The Margaret River Region's serene landscapes and my encounters with diverse personalities during my travels have deeply inspired my work. My art seeks to delve beyond the surface, capturing the essence of my subjects through oil painting and charcoal drawing. The untold stories, the whispered secrets, and the silent screams are all immortalized in my art.
In 2019 and 2020, I sought to refine my craft under the tutelage of internationally acclaimed artists, Robin Eley and Casey Baugh, further enriching my perspective and technique. Since 2021, I've been sharing my knowledge through life charcoal drawing workshops, fostering the development of local creatives.
As I present my work, I invite you to explore the depths of human emotion and the intricate stories that lie behind the faces we see. My journey is a testament to the power of art in discovering the unseen, the unspoken, and the unforgettable.