Finding Solace in Watercolor
After a day of driving routes through Macomb County, there's nothing quite like sitting down with my watercolors and letting my creative spirit flow. My approach to watercolor painting is deeply influenced by my other passions - the structured discipline of driving and the improvisational beauty of jazz.
Abstract Explorations
I don't paint to represent the world literally. Instead, I use watercolor as a medium for abstract expression - creating compositions that evoke emotions, memories, and sensations without depicting specific objects or scenes.
"Morning Fog on I-94" - inspired by the misty mornings on my commute
Techniques and Philosophy
Wet-on-Wet Technique
My favorite technique involves applying wet paint onto already wet paper. This creates beautiful, organic blends and unexpected color interactions. Like driving in unexpected weather conditions, you have to be ready to adapt and work with what the medium gives you.
Layered Glazing
Building up multiple transparent layers creates depth and complexity. This mirrors my approach to route planning - layering information, contingencies, and considerations to create a comprehensive plan.
Negative Space Painting
Sometimes what you leave out is as important as what you include. This teaches patience and thoughtful composition - skills that translate directly to safe driving practices.
The Intersection of Art and Life
I've discovered fascinating parallels between my driving career and my artistic practice:
- Preparation meets spontaneity: Both driving and painting require careful preparation, but also the ability to adapt to changing conditions
- Patience and timing: Knowing when to act and when to wait is crucial in both pursuits
- Attention to detail: The small things make the big difference - whether it's checking mirrors or noticing how colors interact
- Continuous learning: After thirty years of driving and years of painting, I'm still learning something new every day
Musical Inspiration
Jazz music plays constantly in my studio. The improvisational nature of jazz - where musicians follow a structure but allow for creative expression - perfectly captures my approach to both driving (following routes with situational awareness) and painting (working with structure while embracing spontaneity).
Some of my favorite artists to paint to include Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Thelonious Monk. Their music creates a rhythmic backdrop for my creative process.
Looking Forward
I plan to continue exploring the intersection of structure and creativity in my work. Whether I'm navigating M-53 or creating an abstract watercolor, the principles remain the same: careful preparation, attention to detail, and respect for the process.