I was pleased to have one of my paintings accepted to the Center on Contemporary Art (CoCA), On the Natural. The show examines various interpretations of the term ‘natural’. Does it apply to a lack of artifice? To what feels like it comes naturally? Or does the theme encompass organic nature? All very interesting interpretations and the accepted work did not disappoint. Artists from all backgrounds and points of view were curated and I am beyond thrilled to have my painting chosen for the catalog cover.

I examine the role of nature in urban landscapes in my work so I was very interested in the work in the show, which was wide-ranging and conceptual. I also participated in a 12-panel artist discussion on the topic, which was lively and, at times, very moving.

The show is particularly poignant because celebrated glass artist Ginny Ruffner was the juror. Ginny is known as an innovative, dynamic artist and collaborator and I was very much looking forward to speaking with her and thanking her for selecting my piece. Unfortunately, this Seattle icon passed away the day before the panel discussion and her absence was palpable. Her 20 foot high led wall of color and light at the Nordic Museum is awe inspiring and she was very excited about using AI to produce interactive sculptures. I am very sorry we will not benefit from all work she had planned. All I can say is thank you to CoCA for this experience and thank you very much to Ginny Ruffner for all the beauty and color.