Floral Abstractions: A Look Into My Process

“Mirage” // 48” x 60” // acrylic on canvas

Everyone has a unique vibration

When I first started painting, I never imagined floral abstracts would be part of my work—it just sort of happened. As I continued to paint and explore my creative expression, these shapes began to emerge naturally.

I believe each of us has a unique way of making marks, of expressing ourselves through words and images. We all carry a unique and distinct vibrational signature in the universe. So even if we try to mimic someone else’s brush strokes, they’ll inevitably become our own—just like our handwriting and signatures are one of a kind. The marks we make in art are no different.

Going with the flow

My process for these paintings is pretty straightforward. I begin with a blank canvas, knowing I want to create an abstract floral. Certain colors come to mind as I sit with the blank surface in contemplatation and meditation. And then—I just start painting. I don’t use reference materials; instead, I let my imagination wander and try to capture the energy and essence of nature.

I love working on large canvases—the scale lets me move with my whole body, realeasing energy and expressing myself in a different way. It also makes me feel like I’m stepping into the painting.

Typically, I start with light washes or even loose pencil scribbles to get a sense of the composition. From there, I let the painting evolve. The colors and marks begin to respond to each other, guiding me toward the next step.

Sometimes I fill the canvas entirely with marks and shapes, other times I allow for negative space to carry movement in a more ethereal, airy way.

“Enchantment” // acrylic on canvas // 48” x 60”

At some point, I have to come back to earth

There are usually several painting sessions like this—an intuitive back-and-forth process with shape, color, and composition. Eventually, I step back to reassess the whole piece and engage my left brain a bit more. Otherwise, I could float forever in the field of imagination.

At this stage I ask questions: Does anything need added, removed, or refined? Are the colors still working? Is the composition flowing as it needs to?

These final steps can take days or even weeks. I may leave a painting on my easel, returning just to stare at it for an hour. At home, if I’m falling asleep and think “I need to change that spot”, I’ll head back the next day to make adjustments. Or sometimes— the painting simply tells me it’s done.

Once it’s finished, I clean up the edges, wire it for hanging, and give it a name.

“Viridescent” // acrylic on canvas // 36” x 60”

What’s in a name

Over time, I’ve grown to enjoy the process of naming my work. Often, the paintings seem to name themselves. Sometimes the title comes while I’m still painting, a thought popping in from somewhere beyond. Other times, I sit with the piece and have a quiet conversation with it about what it wants to say. But one way or another, the title always arrives.

Words can enhance visual meaning— but sometimes, no words can truly capture how I felt or what I see. Regardless, I hope each viewer brings their own experience to the work. If a titles doesn’t resonate—no worries. You’re invited to find your own meaning.

“Stardust” // acrylic on canvas // 68” x 68”

Why we love flowers so

I believe we are drawn to flowers because they reflect the cycles of life. From seed to sprout, bud to bloom, they grow, flourish, pollinate, and eventually return to the earth to begin the cycle again.

They’re also simply beautiful to look at—and soothing to the nervous system. When we are close to nature, we tune into harmony.

So, take a deep breath and imagine yourself inside these paintings.

To see available work, visit Blue Gallery online or in person in Kansas City, MO.