“In 2010, I started a series of paintings representing each of the 50 U.S. states. Since 1992, I have spent months each year traveling across the country, exploring its vast and diverse landscapes. These works blend observation with painterly intent while staying true to the actual location. The pieces shown at Saint-Gaudens illustrate this 10-year progression. Chesapeake Storm, VA (2014), is a literal depiction based on photographs and my vivid experience of a fast-moving storm. In contrast, Little Round Top, PA (2024), was painted from memory and historical research after visiting Gettysburg. No photos were used—only my experience and reflection on the site’s significance. Red symbolizes death, while a bright blue sky recalls the day’s weather. I exaggerated the hill’s form as a nod to its strategic importance.”