As a writer I have always loved the challenge of working in new forms and genres. My career as an artist has mainly focused on short fiction, plays and novels, but after 9/11 language became an obstacle for me. I couldn't find words to express my grief, horror or my rage at what I had witnessed. It is still difficult to write about the dangerous and uncertain times we live in now. Since 2002 I have found a new expression in painting. I create multi-layered, textured narratives that explore inner landscapes, the concept of the duality of home, fear versus faith, transgressive transformation and multiple identities. Drawing on my dreams, personal narratives, scenes from my written work and current events I use architectural forms, quilt patterns and sacred images to define the space on canvas. I use pens and sharp objects to write on the layered surfaces, scratching and erasing, adding and taking away, to reveal the stories underneath. The images surprise me and yet when they are done I can see that I have told myself another story.

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