Like most everyone else in the world, I've been sheltering for months. My studio is in my backyard, so I'm still painting daily. Sometimes it's just a quick alla prima (wet on wet) study, and other times it's a more detailed piece. These two were painted for an upcoming exhibit called "The Art of Peace" at the Dougherty Arts Center in Austin this coming December.

The first is called "Shelter" and is 11"x14," oil on linen. The second is "In the Water," 20"x16," oil on aluminum.

These two recent deaths, in the hands of police who should be protecting and serving, have been a catalyst for protest, and for reforms in police policy and practices. Like the rest of the nation, I am grief-stricken and confused about how I can help our nation. I am actively learning how to be a better ally to my Black and Brown friends and neighbors, as well as PoC communities in general. Being silent allows systemic and pervasive racism to continue. We must speak up now if we are to have true progress.
​
I painted these two alla prima studies, to help me process my grief. Rest in Peace, Mr. Floyd and Ms. Taylor.