Although neither of my parents worked as artists, they gave me the core ingredients to work as one. They gave me a sense of the possibility and joy that can be found in each day. Every time I create a piece of art, it is this sensibility that moves me. My work is the physical manifestation of the yearning, tenacity and exuberance for life that I felt as a child and that is my touchstone, now, as an adult.

​

I had toy tool boxes by age four, and by age seven I had figured out the great joy there is in making things. I built many, many go-karts and wooden forts. In every project I lost myself; I didn't care about lunch or dinner...when I did stop to eat, I couldn't wait to get back to the project at hand.

​

I feel the same way today when I paint. In fact, it was this ongoing realization-regarding life's rhythm in the making-that all my lessons as a shop teacher emanated. I simply wanted for all my students that feeling of passion and engagement in the present and their work to bring them joy and confidence.

​

My paintings are a celebration of making and materials. Mastery does factor in. Mastery for the joy of it; mastery to express the inexpressible; mastery to bring dignity to this life.

 

- Daniel Gordon, June 2021