being connected
I've spent nearly my entire life in Southwest Missouri and Northern Arkansas, surrounded by a family that offers endless care and support, providing a strong foundation for my life. My passion for art emerged early on, and by my mid-teens, I developed a keen interest in photography. I hold a profound appreciation for the natural world and the earth's exquisite symmetry, and I am thankful for this precious stewardship we've been granted by the Creator. During my younger years, I would spend endless hours wandering through fields, forests, and along streams, finding contentment in the quiet solitude and excitement in where this journey of adventure might lead.
This web gallery predominantly features images from the Ozark Plateau, a region in the central United States. Encompassing the southern half of Missouri, northwest and north-central Arkansas, and minor sections of Kansas and Oklahoma, it spans nearly 50,000 square miles. This vast area offers a rich expanse for exploration, and I am fortunate to have it right outside my door. I have my cherished spots that I revisit, each time discovering something previously unnoticed or witnessing the seasonal transformations that highlight nature's relentless progression, her capacity for healing, and the emergence of new life. The variety within these forests, waterways, and rolling hills renders this region a constantly evolving canvas.
As an artist, I draw inspiration and knowledge from other photographers whose work resonates with me and ignites my creativity. Studying the images of these great artists, I find myself captivated by the majestic and intimate landscapes of the western United States, as well as the scenic beauty of the northeastern U.S. Similarly, the unique landscapes of Canada, Iceland, Greenland, Ireland, Europe, New Zealand and Japan hold a strong allure for me.
These images make me envious at times and create a desire to travel to photograph and explore in these same places. But there are still so many places to explore and learn from just outside my back door. I have a list of locations I am dying to see; trails that I have yet to travel and streams I have not waded through. I am connected to the Ozark landscape and inspired by this land.
