"Strange Encounters" is a series of paintings based on people that have come through my life. These people have left lasting impressions on me, and I have learned some very important lessons through all of them. Some of these relationships have been more hurtful than beneficial, but I truly can say that they've transformed my life. The style I painted them is that of a grotesque, to highlight what I've learned about myself through their personalities. These qualities are not unique to these people that I've chosen to paint, but rather are qualities that you can see in much of humanity. I hope that these paintings will cause reflection in the viewer, and make them aware of these traits within themselves.

Party Girl is the depiction of a girl who is always part of the "scene". She never misses an event. The need to be "where it's happening" is all that matters, and with the countless people around her she feels popular. But nothing is able to penetrate within. This is all a pretense, shallow, and deep inside she is unfulfilled. In New York City, there are many women like this. Surrounded by people, yet alone.