I've never felt complete without a little paint under my fingernails; evidence of the heaving of wax, paster, paint, and emotion onto a surface.”



Much of my materials are scraped, scratched, wiped clean and the process begins again. The bold use of colour is often hidden among the layers of wax and thick impasto of black or white - this colour often takes on juxtaposing textures; either thickly dragged or dripped loosely across the canvas.  The use of substantial texture originates from my primary training as a sculptor working with plaster, wax, and clay. I have always felt that I do not actually create my work, but rather I feel it. The tactility, the physicality of paint, plaster and wax often take on a life of their own.



My main inspiration is my emotional connection to history, nostalgia and water. As an art teacher I have the privilege of witnessing the growth of creativity every day. Much of my technical and material inspiration evolves from the exploration that happens in classes with my students. Their handling of materials is pure and unbiased - I find this approach to be the most sincere form of expression.



The influence of Gerhard Richter, Mark Bradford, Aaron Emerson Jones, as well as the encaustic work of Ann Shier are evident in my work through its texture, wax layers and collaged materials. I am constantly seeking inspiration both in my environment as well as in the work of other artists.



Environmental photography is also an important inspiration; sometimes just a detail, a line, a shape will spark a series of works; Simple landscapes including water, land, and sky; reflecting the days floating in a canoe in Algonquin Park, or a view of Lake Muskoka from a dock.
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Amy's artwork has been sold for charity auctions in 2011 & 2012 at Arta Gallery in Toronto's Historic Distillery District. Her work as also been featured in a Brookstone commercial.