in 2012, I made a series of paintings exploring the human figure. In these paintings, I wanted to convey emotion through the poses of a woman alone and with her partner. Several paintings from that series will be shared at the upcoming erotic show “Banana SPLIT” this weekend at the SPLIT Gallery, 2561 Leavenworth St. in Omaha. Check the link to see gallery hours for the weekend show.

Vulnerability and loving touch were the primary ideas I considered as I painted in a limited palette. I also wanted to explore universal themes of loss, frailty, grief, change, love and comfort. In her review for The Reader of the show where these pieces debuted, Sally Deskins said of my paintings: “The narrative is enjoyable to follow, almost as though you are watching through the lovers’ window. The passion of the artist with her story is evidenced in the accentuated line quality and intensity of hues. Her intention was utilizing the body’s ‘touch’ to espouse emotion; and in that way she was successful.“

Deskins describes the painting “Kiss,” included in the upcoming SPLIT show and shown below. The embracing couple “displays emotion with just a torso — the hands, genitals and legs are affectionately achieved — with her color choice and romantic narrative, the result normalizes the nakedness rather than shuns it.“

There is a great line-up of local artists for the show at SPLIT and I’m looking forward to seeing the variety of interpretations. Please join us!