Laurie…sorry for the delay in response to your observations….

I must say... you have really amazed me with your in depth analises and questions about the creative process.
I will try to respond first with your questions about the paintings that made you uneasy or uncertain as to my 
motivation. 

Let’s start with “Archangel” page 134 “ROOTS and WINGS”

 This was my first attempt at etching. Using a metal pointed instrument I began with no preliminary sketch, just experimenting with the medium.

Most of this drawing was made without picking up the engraver, very loose and free flowing. You are right, the figure turned out to be an evil looking angel. Only one print was pulled and I don’t know what happened to the copper plate.

 

Two sketches on page 138 “ROOTS and WINGS”

The sketch on the left truly reflects angst… which is exactly what I was trying to do.

Sometimes art is therapy for the artist…. not meant for the public at large.

The sketch on the right titled “The Rape of Dixie” was inspired by my interest in the civil war. The black figure represents the north the white represents the south. The event was Sherman’s march to the sea burning everything in his path. A confederate flag is in the background. This sketch was never made into a painting.

 

The Visit series pages 149-155 “ROOTS and WINGS”

These strange little watercolors were done when I was at the proverbial “wall”

I started with pencil to paper with no preconceived idea. Beginning with a circular shape that turned out to be the head of a figure or animal from some far away place in my subconscious. It wasn’t until I had finished the series that I understood they were, in their own peculiar way, self portraits. These small watercolors should be taken with tongue- in- cheek. They are funny little cartoons full of whimsy with an underlying touch of the “human condition” but they were beneficial to me because when they were finished I was on level ground again painting Midwestern landscapes.

Thank you for your many positive comments on my work and for your honesty in describing the paintings you didn't find pleasing. Most painters or writers understand that when we put forth our efforts to public scrutiny our work will not please everyone, especially when we describe our innermost feelings. 
Please stay in touch Laurie.