Luminosity

What inspires me to begin a painting is a unique emotion I want to encapsulate in my finished piece. I hope to invoke a response in the viewer that I experienced when I first witnessed the scene myself. Lately, I am gravitating towards the movement, power, and sheer beauty of ocean waves. What I love about waves is the simultaneous feeling of calm, power, and awe that I experience when watching them unfold. 

"Luminosity" is my first completed ocean wave painting in oil. The painting is based on photos and videos taken during a stop at Garrapata State Beach. I zoomed in on the wave splashing against the rocks to capture the intricate patterns and fluid movement of the water. I love the contrast between the smooth, flowing water and the rough, textured rocks.

This piece is currently part of the La Aqua Vida show at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum through March 30, 2026.