Images in the forms of family photos and souvenir postcards often serve as a starting point for my  work. While mining this collection I put intent aside in favor of a sub-conscious selection process.  Some of the source material will stick in memory, calling out to be dealt with. In preparing drawings  from theses images there is much reflection on what they contain. In time a narrative emerges.  My medium is not traditionally used for fine art, but has a long history in the decorative arts. Oil-based  enamels, Japan colors, and varnishes were familiar to me as finishes which could be used to great  visual effect. A considerable amount of experimentation and exploration led to my process for adapting  these materials. The paintings are created in stages, over an extended period of time. Several thin layers  of paint are built-up and later reduced by sanding. It is slow process, the end is a combination of  results that were calculated, along with some surprises, a balance between intent and accident