The Return, Oil on Canvas, 2017

Why the Rabbit?

I get this question a lot.  Many years ago I started placing rabbits in my paintings, and although the idea continues to evolve, it is about valuing the chase more than the capture.  This can also be understood as staying in the moment and enjoying the process.  For me, rabbits were a symbol of elusiveness and the idea of a something difficult to pin down.   When I first started painting rabbits I had a very strong sense of urgency about things like gaining knowledge, finishing a painting, and reaching my goals.  At some point I realized that the joy existed in the hunt more than the kill.   From that point on I have been on a journey trying to coexist with the rabbit, to stay in the chase and be happy with the process.  The rabbit is a constant reminder to slow down and appreciate the now.