My Journey: Why I Create Abstract Art

I still remember sitting at my computer years ago, designing websites and solving problems—loving the precision, the logic, the way everything clicked together. Yet a part of me remained quietly restless. I had spent decades working in IT and project management, crafting digital designs, and even decorating cakes as a playful hobby—but the real spark had eluded me.

Embracing Change: A New Chapter

Then came retirement. As I transitioned into a new chapter, I realized I needed more than routine—I needed purpose and pure creative exploration. At my daughter’s suggestion, I tried flow painting. With wide-eyed curiosity, I watched YouTube videos, bought some basic supplies, and—instant obsession. Painting every day became my new rhythm. And that’s when abstract art found me.

The Allure of Abstract Art

Abstract painting opened a whole new world: vivid colors, bold patterns, endless possibilities. I started with no fixed concept, only the urge to see what would emerge. Layering paint and molding the surface through color and form—I began to feel both grounded and liberated.

I drew inspiration from my surroundings—southwest Florida’s serene blues and the rugged Midwest where I grew up. These landscapes, however, don’t appear in my work as realistic scenes; instead, they become emotional echoes. Each piece is a journey guided by music, feeling, and memory—almost as if the subject chooses me as I paint.

My Creative Process

My process? I start with nearly nothing—just a brush, a pallet knife, sometimes oil or alcohol ink—and let the layers build a dynamic, complex surface. I strive to balance chaos and calm, offering moments of visual rest amid energetic movement. Sometimes I pause and reflect: where is the emotion flowing? What is the color whispering?

Over time, abstract art has become more than technique—it’s my emotional landscape, a way to capture ineffable feelings in paint. I discovered that control doesn’t always mean planning; sometimes it means knowing when to let go and let the composition evolve.

A Journey of Discovery

My journey into this world wasn’t straightforward. I didn’t study art in school—I was a “music kid” forbidden from art classes—and I spent most of my life in structured, logical roles. But as retirement settled in and I embraced painting, I found what was missing: the capacity to feel deeply and express authentically.

Through classes, local shows, and gallery exhibits, I deepened my craft. I also realized art doesn’t live in isolation—I founded the Art Guild of Naples and now serve on the Art Council of Southwest Florida, creating community and connection for visual artists.

Why Abstract Art?

So when someone asks me why abstract art?, I say: It’s how I feel the world. It’s how I translate movement, memory, emotion, sound, and color onto canvas. It’s the beautiful uncertainty of creation and the balance between pushing boundaries and finding stillness.

If you’ve found yourself drawn to abstract works, I invite you to visit my studio at Trillium Gallery & Studios, 5450c Shirley Street, Naples, FL, and step into that tension with me—between chaos and calm, color and form, emotion and structure. Let the art speak, let it breathe, and may it offer you a glimpse into what lies beneath.

Invitation to Connect

Invitation: I’d love to hear your thoughts—what emotions or memories does your favorite abstract painting awaken in you?

In this journey of art, I’ve discovered that every stroke tells a story. Each canvas is a reflection of my inner world, a dance of colors that resonate with my spirit. As I paint, I feel the pulse of life flowing through me, guiding my hand and heart.

Art is not just a visual experience; it’s a sensory journey. The texture of the paint, the scent of the materials, and the sound of the brush gliding across the canvas—all of these elements come together to create a symphony of expression.

I believe that art has the power to connect us. It invites us to explore our emotions and memories, to reflect on our experiences, and to share our stories. When we engage with art, we open ourselves to new perspectives and deeper understanding.

As I continue to create, I am reminded of the beauty of collaboration. I cherish the moments spent with fellow artists, exchanging ideas and inspiration. Together, we form a vibrant community that nurtures creativity and fosters growth.

In my studio, I strive to create a welcoming space where everyone can feel at home. I want visitors to experience the joy of creation, to feel the energy of the colors, and to connect with the art on a personal level.

Let’s embark on this artistic journey together. Whether you’re an art collector, an interior designer, or simply someone who appreciates beauty, I invite you to explore the world of abstract art with me.

May my pieces resonate with you, sparking emotions and memories that linger long after you leave. Together, let’s celebrate the magic of art and the stories it tells.