Scratchboard is an art form that most people are not familiar with. However most of us while in grade school art class did something very similar. Construction paper was covered with a mixed selection of crayons. The colors were then covered with solid black and a wooden stick was used to scratch the black crayon off exposing the colors underneath.
I use a scratchboard that is made up of a masonite board that has been coated with white Kaolin Clay, then sprayed with black India ink. Using a straight pin to scratch away the black ink, I expose the white clay beneath bringing depth, light, and character to the work. During normal drawing techniques shading is added to the image where with scratchboard light is added.  

The subjects in most of my works are wildlife. With a background in wetland analysis, as a cartographer/photo-interpreter, I see the need to protect these wonderful creatures. As most are aware, once a species is terminated the balance of nature is forever altered. Perhaps by creating these pieces of art I in some small way may change the way someone else feels or thinks about these animals and the habitat in which they live.

In 1977 I discovered scratchboard art at a local Florida art show but never had time to explore it. Becoming disabled in 1997 due to ARDS (acute respiratory distress syndrome) and Ankylosing Spondylitis I’ve gained a whole new perspective on life and how I observe it. Nearly 25 years after my first encounter with this form of art I have discovered my disability to be a blessing, allowing me the time to follow my creative path.  I am married to Monica, a woman who has stuck by my side through all of my medical issues from the day that I met her. This is a trait that is very difficult to find in someone. We live in Caledonia, Michigan and we are the proud grandparents of 2.