Art can mean different things to different people. For me, I find the process of ‘creating’ something therapeutic, challenging, intriguing and peaceful all at the same time. It is an escape, an outlet. And on occasion it can be a means to part with emotions. But what I enjoy most is creating something that holds meaning, or sentimental value, for someone else. Interestingly, this is how I got my start in oil painting.
 
In 2000, I began painting shortly after the death of my youngest brother, Steve Raffety. As you can imagine, it was a difficult time not only for me but especially my mother. I was compelled to paint a surreal impressionist scene of my mother and Steve having a picnic in the sun. I shocked her with it about a month after my brother had died. It was only my third attempt at painting and I had not shared my new found passion with anyone. I simply wanted to paint something that was in some way healing and comforting.
 
Since that time, I’ve produced close to 150 oil paintings in a variety of styles. I’ve also branched out into photography and mural work. I participate in several art guilds and associations, ever continuing to learn and gain experience.
 
I prefer an impressionist approach rather than a realistic one. I set out to create a piece that captures or evokes emotion as well as allows the viewer to escape from the day to day world around them.  
 
My artwork is simply the world around us through my personal and artistic filter.

Art Associations and Memberships