The intuitive spontaneity of the abstract artists of the New York School has been a huge inspiration in my painting. My study and practice of authentic presence thru Dzogchen and Zen has been another big influence. These two strands come together in my process. When beginning a painting I have no idea of the finished work in mind rather, I begin with what the Zen tradition calls “don’t know mind” – a mind empty of thoughts and opinions. As Jackson Pollock said “I’m not aware of what I’m doing…..the painting has a life of its own, I try to let it come through.” Working without any expectations, free of self-consciousness, my creative energy is given full play to be one with the call and response of the changing conditions of each arising moment. When the whole thing comes together, an inner voice shouts, “Yes!” it is done. Stepping back, taking in what has emerged, my deep response suggests a title that is surprising, something I never would have thought of, yet feels so right.