Inside The Art
Episode 2: 1986 Mt. Hood Tragedy

Inspiration
In 1986, 9 members of Oregon Episcopal School, including 7 students, died during one of the worst tragedies in Mt. Hood climbing history. One of those students, Alison Litzenberger, was a Sunday school classmate of mine, and her loss had a profound impact on me and those who knew her. I created this airbrush painting during high school following this tragic event as a tribute to a friend lost too young. My condolences to her family, friends, and classmates.


Art is Where the Home Is

Processing Emotions
The 1986 Mt. Hood tragedy was my first experience losing a friend. This occurred early in my high school years and generated emotions and confusion I was unprepared to handle. As has often been the case, I turned to art to give me a medium to work through these feelings and communicate in ways I lack words to express. Art continues to play this critical role in my life. I enjoy selecting subjects based on the meaning they have on how I see and process life. I follow a similar approach when collaborating on projects for others. Understanding the story behind the art drives inspiration for its development.

