This series was sparked by a visit to a small shoemaking factory in Warren, R.I. Something about the heavy, oily, cast-iron machines standing like totems around the perimeter of the room fascinated me.

In casting about for an explanation of what drew me to use the shoemaking imagery, I came upon the story, written in 1597 by Thomas Deloney, of shoemaker St. Hugh, who was hung in 300AD for his Christian beliefs. I realized I was a journeyman like the others, taking the "bones" of the shoemaker and repurposing them as my own tools.

I investigated the machines in dozens of studies in charcoal, oil pastel, crayon, collage and acrylic. I arranged some as triptychs. Others machines I approached singly as icons or portraits. Medieval religious paintings influenced the composition and color.

I have now completed over 20 paintings and numerous works on paper. They will be exhibited at the Gail Cahalan Gallery, 200 Allens Avenue, Providence, R.I. from November 13 to December 5, 2008. Opening reception Saturday, November 15, from 4 to 7 pm. And Saturday, November 29, from 4 to 7 pm.