NORTHERN CALIFORNIA COLORIST

At 22 years old, after a period of deep personal reflection following the loss of my mother, I made a vow to live my life to its fullest and pursue my true passion. I left my day job to dedicate myself entirely to painting. Now, three decades later, I remain a devoted artist, committed to what some call the "Color Visualist Movement" and others the "New American Impressionist Movement," with a focus on the techniques of the "Hawthorne-Hensche Principle."

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Recently, my artistic path has taken a new turn. Following the passing of my long-time studio-mate of 25 years, Camille Przewodek, I have moved out of our shared space and am reestablishing my own studio. This transition marks a new chapter in my journey—one I face with renewed focus and resilience, drawing strength from my spirituality and deep connection to nature. The philosophy guiding me has always emphasized staying grounded, finding peace within, and being attuned to the natural world that inspires my art endlessly.

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Art has been more than just a practice; it has been my healing force. In times of loss and hardship, art has been my anchor, the means through which I channel my emotions and find solace. The act of creation helps me process grief and keeps me moving forward, guiding me toward acceptance and inner peace. Art is not just about painting; it's about healing, reflecting, and transforming life's challenges into moments of beauty.

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As a painter, my mission is to use the techniques of striated and broken color to capture nature's ever-changing moods and subtle whispers. I see a deep connection between the natural world and my creative process. My work seeks to honor these natural rhythms, depicting specific color relationships to interpret the light keys that nature so generously offers. In all its magnificence, nature is my muse and teacher, guiding my hand and nurturing my spirit.

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My artistic journey has been deeply shaped by my studies of the "Hawthorne-Hensche Principle." For over a decade, I had the privilege of learning from Camille Przewodek and other esteemed students of Henry Hensche, such as John Ebersberger and Cedric and Joanette Egeli, both in Maryland and at the Cape Cod School of Art in Provincetown. Additionally, I studied landscape painting with the late Joseph Mendez, a former student of Russian master Sergei Bongart, in California and Spain, as well as with Frank Gannon of Forestville, California, another follower of Hensche's teachings.

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The lineage of Hensche's teachings resonates deeply with me, not only for its artistic legacy but also for its philosophical alignment with my personal beliefs. Much like the meditative practice of being present in each moment, Hensche's art of seeing encourages us to observe the world without bias and to immerse ourselves in its true essence. This connection to a rich tradition of seeing the world through a compassionate and mindful lens keeps me grounded in my art and life's journey.

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My educational path has also led me to workshops at the Scottsdale Artists' School, where I have learned from renowned painters such as Gay Faulkenberry, George Strickland, Kenn Backhaus, Skip Whitcomb, Matt Smith, and Ray Roberts. Since 2003, I have collaborated closely with Peggi Kroll-Roberts and Ray Roberts of Angels Camp, California. Teaching and continuous learning from fellow artists remain core aspects of my life. I find great satisfaction in the endless pursuit of knowledge and artistic growth—a pursuit that mirrors my spiritual journey.

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My primary focus has been on "plein-air" painting, a practice that allows me to deepen my connection with nature. Painting in the open air is both a meditation and a celebration of the present moment, reflecting the mindfulness principles central to my way of life. By blending the "Hawthorne-Hensche Principle" with the academic approaches of the "Bongart School of Art," I aim to teach others not only how to paint but also how to truly "see"—to witness the profound beauty of the world with an open heart and mind.

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My passion is to preserve and expand these artistic traditions while staying true to the values of connectedness and mindfulness that guide my life. I aspire to inspire fellow artists and students to delve deeply into these studies, to connect with nature, and to find strength in its wisdom. Through my work and teachings, I aim to keep alive the legacy of these great artists and the spirit of my guiding principles, encouraging others to seek a deeper understanding of art and life. Together, let's keep the flame of the Hawthorne-Hensche tradition burning brightly, guiding future generations on their journey of creative and spiritual insight.