I am drawn to photorealism and the intricate detail of still life. In contrast, I value patterns and repetition from Middle Eastern geometric patterns, which provide an alternate form of expression by emphasizing pattern over object. These two very different representations are united in my portraits and landscape paintings.

My first step in my process is to photograph the subject. The image produced is used as a foundation as I incorporate unnatural elements and features. I paint primarily in acrylic and sometimes use felt pens for fine detailing. I use some aspects of photorealism in my work, but deviate by drawing heavily on black, white, and gold lines for emphasis.

For portraits, I paint in gray scale and use brilliant colors to offset the darker tones because it allows the viewer to see the interaction between the person and background, while abstract elements embody the complexity of the moment; representing energy and the breakdown of a moment in time. I emphasize tone and lighting to help convey a mood to elevate the viewing experience, while also allowing the viewer to derive their own meaning from the work.