Inspiration

I also continue to be inspired by past artists as I reflect on the nature of the art world, both past and present. Different artists have inspired different work and means of creating art. Some of the strongest ongoing influences on my work include, but are by no means limited to:
Marina Abramovic & Ulay, Vito Acconci, Shimon Attie, Joseph Beuys, Christian Boltanski, John Cage, Judy Chicago, Joseph Cornell, Marcel Duchamp, Carl Rice Embrey, Kate Ericson & Mel Zeigler, Andrea Frasier, Gilbert & George, Andy Goldsworthy, Andrea Green, Ann Hamilton, Jenny Holzer, Rebbeca Horn, Caroline Huth, Candy Jernigan, Ilya Kabakov, Frida Kahlo, Anselm Kiefer, Ana Mendieta, Linda Montano, Yoko Ono, Adrian Piper, Cindy Sherman, Kiki Smith, Lenore Tawney, Vanessa Tiegs, Andy Warhol

I respect people who are willing to take chances in their work and open themselves up to harsh criticism and judgement. Among the people whom I know who are willing to express themselves in unconventional ways are friends and fellow artists:

Annette Crymes, a writer who wittily challenges conventional ideas surrounding racism, religion and sexuality in her series of humorous novellas

Aunia Kahn, a digital artist who creates psychologically imbued images that explore the gamut of human emotion as well as women’s issues

Cindy Royal, a painter who recycles materials to create one-of-a-kind works reflecting on animal rights, human experience and the entertainment industry