Tell us briefly about your background & how you got started in your medium.

While I was always creative, I did not begin abstract painting until 2016, when I was fully retired and had the time. Since then, I have painted almost every day, and have continued to take classes and workshops in person and online. My medium is “mixed”, meaning I use what inspires me, found objects, unexpected combinations of materials. Usually this includes acrylic paints, inks, graphite, charcoal, pastels, crayons, collage bits. This allows me a lot of opportunity to experiment and play.

What do you like most about your medium?

Working with mixed media is very freeing. I especially love “gestural intuitive” painting….which means I get physical, using large arm movements, and sometimes putting some serious pressure into the brush or mark-making tool. And I don’t project. Each step is inspired by the moment, i.e. the current information provided by the painting.
I have been inspired by painting with a rust wash (which I make myself); Holbein acrylic gouache, as it provides intensely saturated colors; and using brushes I make from branches and ornamental grasses.

Who or what have been your artistic inspirations?

I have always been a fan of color! The possibilities energize me. And a while back, I had the good fortune to visit New Mexico. That was a turning point for me as it helped me see the beauty and value of “imperfection” in art/ creativity.
In my practice I have learned to trust and take risks and to not be so judgmental. The result is that my recent work is more authentic and has a “freedom” of expression.

Do you have a favorite piece in your portfolio?

My favorite pieces are the ones that surprise me. “I made that?” Every piece in this exhibit is special to me, as I have experienced an inner trust that is new and so empowering.
While I have had favorite pieces from season to season, right now I appreciate how my exhibit feels unified….I am calling it “ Lyrical in Nature”, as my marks and brush strokes dance and float in a current of natural symbols and themes. Today I am choosing the whole exhibit as my favorite.

What would be your advice to artists just starting out in your medium?

Advice? Just do it! Dive in! Take a class (in person or on-line). Invite a friend over to paint with you. For me it has been a learn-as-I-go adventure.