In 2019, while residing in the Pacific Northwest, Christopher found his career as a chef at a crossroads. Frustrated with the toxicity that exists within the restaurant industry and a lack of purposeful direction, he made the decision to cut his losses. His 16-year run in the world of fine dining was over. The newly found freedom now allowed him the opportunity to search for a new path outside of the kitchen, instead, he became disconnected from himself falling into a deep state of depression. Now battling a deteriorated mental state, he turned to substances. His darkest days ensued. It was through this battle with mental anguish that he made the discoveries of a lifetime. Filling sleepless nights with literature from philosophy to psychology. His existential nature demanded to know why and what makes humans behave the way they do. He spent many days in the lush temperate rainforests pondering. Allured by the voracious drive to catch a fish he had heard so much about. One that exemplified the only example of purpose left within him. To catch a much revered steelhead trout. Since a tug on the line wasn't the reality he encountered on his many trips to his local tributaries, days were spent standing in freezing waist-deep water; soul searching. He was unaware of the transmutation occuring within his soul. It was almost as if that same nutrient fed water that harbors some of the most majestic flora and fauna in the world, had nourished a part of him too. The realization of his own lack of truth was envisaged for him by nature. Bringing a long-lost creative spirit back to life. Amongst the scenic backdrop of salmon country, a much-needed reflection of self set into motion the events that led him to the present day. It was this duality of internal and external forces that proved to be the catalyst for revitalization. Attempting to acquire healthier methods of coping, he began to write poetry and record music, then finally, after 20 plus years, picked up a pencil and started sketching. This led to painting. Painting quickly became a new passion unlike anything he had ever experienced. With a ferocity so intense that it bordered on obsession. Now traveling for work as a private chef to some of the most breathtaking regions of the country, he now had a lifetime of inspiration available. It was a winter in the Arctic circle where he discovered more than just the frequency of the northern lights, but the suppressed voice of a little boy desperately wanting to be heard. The acknowledgement of how childhood’ plays a big role in our development as adults and the manner in which it shapes our behavior were the answers to the questions he could not answer. The supercharged particles that slammed into earth’s atmosphere at 40 million miles an hour, now illuminate the face of the inner child. Now alongside his new best friend and a commitment to self-improvement, he knew it was his obligation to give that child what was never given to him. A voice. It was this voice that influenced his desire to become a full time visual artist.
