I am constantly fascinated by peoples reactions when preconceived expectations and reality do not match. When confronted with such a paradox, our reaction ranges from delight to fear-- we must choose between ignoring the contradiction, imposing a comfortable rationalization, or expanding and reevaluating our internal world.

By combining objects, ideas and materials I strive to trigger conflicting internal schema. Stone, for example, is especially suited to this paradox. Not only does the material itself have meaning to the viewer (i.e. its weight, permanence, immobility) but like the “Emperors New Clothes”, when carved, the work somehow instantly acquires an aura of artistic prestige. And like the crowd watching the emperor, we are often both delighted and embarrased when confronted in order to draw the viewer into further exploration and understanding of their world.