There are several key elements of my oil pastel paintings that make them compelling. In order to capture the unique atmosphere of a landscape or cityscape, I begin with a photograph. I often take my own pictures, simply because I tend to photograph scenes that translate well to oil pastel, and have done several commissions of pictures that have been submitted to me by customers to capture a scene that is special to them. I depict the vitality and intensity of the subject through the use of vivid colors, striking contrasts of light and shadow, and sensual textures. My moods are crucial to creating a compelling painting. They are usually connected to the subject, but are often influenced by music and my everyday experiences.