Intrigued by the resonating images and beauty of the Medieval and Early Renaissance panel paintings, I chose to study the history and techniques of painting with egg tempera. I am particularly influenced by the Russian icon-painters, not only for their painting techniques but also for their contemplative spirit. It is this spirit that unites the mind, heart and hand. Drawing is a passion of mine-it is the essence of my work. I believe drawing offers a passage within-a direct connection to the imagination, memories, dreams and underlying thoughts and emotions. In addition to graphite, I employ silverpoint-an historical drawing medium popular during the Renaissance. The subtle silver hue oxidizes over a period of time into a deeper gray or a warm brown tone. This evolving characteristic of the silverpoint drawings mirrors the transitory stages of nature..