The unique landscapes of the San Luis Valley and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains inform and inspire my work. Moving seasonally between Taos, NM, and Trinchera Ranch in Costilla County, Colorado provides layers of interpretive exploration of nature's manifold interplays: light & shadow, wet & dry, high & low, hot & cold. It is difficult to look at the skies, rivers, and mountains in this country and not feel drawn to express yourself. Drawing from these feelings, experiences, and biomes, my abstract paintings include mixed paint types, glass beads, and rich texture. I apply color and texture with found objects, eschewing traditional brushes and knives. The result is an abstract composition that conveys my experience with the American Southwest.