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“Let us at last praise the colonizers of dreams” – Peter Beagle

 

Colonizers of dreams, realizers of fantasy, denizens of imagination’s realm – these were once invaluable qualities of painters, musicians, writers and other artists. I feel though, that these virtues have been all but marginalized in society at this point in time. Consequently, I endeavor to do my part to promote them through painting. 

 

When I’m able to escape to a place of fantasy I feel comfortable and grounded. I do not like technology in the least and I feel awkward and out of place at this time in history. I don’t believe this is the true reality – not the way we were supposed to live, so I paint where and who I would love to be.

 

My paintings almost always start with a very thoughtful plan and they evolve into their own story. Each item and pattern in the composition is chosen with care and purpose.  My painting technique, however, is more spontaneous and intuitive. I layer colors and play with the paint until I achieve the look and feel that speaks to me. I am a self-taught artist and I’ve yet to determine if my technique is unusual or traditional.

 

When I first started painting, my most profound influence was the Fauvist movement (les Fauves - French for "the wild beasts"). Artists such as Cézanne, Gaugin, Van Gogh and Matisse were notable members of this artistic style. I loved observing their conveyance of emotion, colors and unique way of looking at familiar, everyday things. I try to express emotion and passion in a similar way that’s felt deeper the more you gaze at the piece.

 

Art can help us pay tribute to the good in life and process the difficult. I hope to express the difficult feelings and sadness we all face while also celebrating the fun, sweet, beautiful and romantic.

 

I currently live in beautiful Sonoma County with my husband Dakota and my best dog ever, Navajo Romeo. I own a small beauty collective in Rohnert Park called Painted Gypsy Beauty Bar where, as the resident nail artist, I spend my days painting lots of tiny “canvases”.