Henri Matisse’s, The Red Studio, slowly became the inspiration for this digital work. His foundational painting crept into my imagination as I worked to depict a colorful and dreamlike space of my own. While I worked, I began to reflect on what I already knew about Matisse’s studio, his tools, practice, and methods. I thought about the way I work: a loose idea, developed through a series of sketches – the communication and “wrestling” with the work . . . Like most of what I create, the final product bears little resemblance to what I first envisioned!

The real “Red Studio” is often the “Matisse” people recall first. It is a work I have often found myself drawn to. It has confused me and often left me frustrated but I just cannot ignore it for long. I admire its boldness. I love its many delicate elements. I used to believe that if I looked at it long enough, I would understand it. (I know now that this is a foolish goal.)

Thank you, Monsieur Matisse! Thank you for your magnificent work and the invitation to enjoy it anew each day!