I‘ve always been fascinated by old and antique toys, hand tools and the like. I came across this yellow metal biplane on eBay, and once I acquired it, had to figure out what to do with it. Since it’s a flying machine, I didn’t want it to just sit on a flat surface, so out came the kitchen twine, and up it went! The workbench is one my father had made 60-some years ago, and the remaining toys, balls, and hand tools are some of my acquisitions.

When I’m starting a painting, I look at the color of the various components and imagine how they can be placed within the composition to create interest and drama. I’m also interested in how different lighting approaches can heighten the visual experience. For example, the use of a yellow floodlight in this arrangement dramatically heightens the character and dimensionality of the individual objects, while the corrugated box contributes to the illusion of depth. All of which serve to create a more engaging visual experience for the viewer. Completed in 2023, this piece is oil on linen, 24"h X 30"w, and is framed.