Art, for me, is about storytelling. Whether through painting or photography, I strive to capture the essence of a moment—the tension, the energy, the quiet poetry of life. My painting background informs how I see the world through a lens. Light, shadow, and composition are as important in my photography as they are on my canvas. As a painter, I found joy in capturing moments and stories on canvas. One of my proudest achievements is my oil portrait of Georgia Neese Clark Gray, the first woman to serve as Treasurer of the United States, which now hangs in the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum. Additionally, my painting "Picnic with the Travel Air 1926" was acquired by the Smithsonian’s National Air & Space Museum, and two of my paintings are part of the U.S. Air Force Art Collection. My artistic journey took a dynamic turn when I embraced photography as my primary medium. Drawing from my painting background, I approach photography with a painter's eye, focusing on composition, light, and storytelling. This fusion allows me to create images that reside in a space between painting and photography, offering viewers a unique visual experience. Living in Topeka, Kansas, I've been deeply influenced by the rich cultural tapestry of the Midwest. A pivotal experience was working on a dude ranch at 21. This immersion ignited a fascination with the rodeo culture, leading me to explore and document the adrenaline-fueled world of Kansas rodeo riders. Through my lens, I strive to capture the essence of the rodeo—the grit, determination, and artistry of the cowboys and cowgirls. Employing a multi-layered process, I transform photographs into vivid portrayals, highlighting the intensity and skill inherent in rodeo performances. I aim to present these moments with a painterly aesthetic, emphasizing dramatic lighting and composition to evoke emotion and narrative. The journey from painter to photographer has been one of discovery and evolution. While the tools have changed—from brushes to cameras—the core of my work remains rooted in storytelling and the exploration of the human spirit. The landscapes and people around me continually inspire me, and I am dedicated to sharing these stories through my art, inviting viewers to see the world through my eyes.