Artist Bio

As I continue to create I find myself drawing personal images on the painting surface as well as re-evaluating hundreds of older images in order to discover which ideas have become valuable enough to use once again. Ironically, it’s my upper Michigan childhood experiences that have led me to rediscover many of those images.  Just one example is my study of fish which over many years still finds a way to surface on the canvass and has further expanded by fishing in Alaska and having a chance to witness the cycle of fish found there.

My Finnish heritage with its bright use of colors coupled with Alden Steck’s teaching while growing up have always directed me towards using vivid hues.  I have made time over the years to further my art education by visiting major art museum both at home and abroad.  Simply put what I have to say in words would best be understood by your evaluating of my life’s creative work.

Academic

Bachelor of Science in Design, University of Michigan, 1960Master of Fine Arts, University of Michigan, 1962

Art Museums Visited

France, Netherlands, England, Germany, Sweden, Norway, Austria, Switzerland, Spain

Awards

Who's Who in American ArtNotable AmericansWho's Who in the WestEdition of American Artists of RenownPersonalities of the West and MidwestInternational Biographical Center - Cambridge, EnglandAmerican Artists, "An Illustrated Survey of American Contemporaries"International Artists Biographies, Flash Art Publications - Milan, ItalySouthwest Art ReviewMen of Achievement - Cambridge, EnglandWho's Who in AmericaStrathmore's Who's WhoDictionary of International BiographyThe Twentieth Century Award for AchievementIdaho Commission on the Arts, GrantFinnfest '95 art Exhibit Invited Artist - Portland, OregonFrom The Beginning: Contemporary Finnish-American Series, touring Finland 2003-2004