I went on an artist residency to France to trace the steps of Cézanne, Monet, Van Gogh, and other impressionists, and to find inspiration for a new chapter in my art. What I discovered was the courage to face myself as an artist. For art not only changes how we see the world but also how we see ourselves.
This transformational experience challenged me to create some of my boldest work to date. The resulting kaleidoscoped lucite, mixed media, and fused glass creations, push the boundaries of my glass work and explore the themes of simplifying expectations, embracing curiosity, and breaking down perfectionism.
I want to share some of the highlights of my solo art show, the journey that they took me on, and how, as a Gallery Director, they have helped me find healing, courage, and balance.
“Dreaming of Paris”
Paris is one of the cities where artists are seen, heard and appreciated. Artists from around the world are always inspired there. Monet captured the beauty of Paris in his paintings of the Seine. Van Gogh lived in Paris and many of his paintings were inspired by the city’s streets, cafés, and vibrant night scenes.
I wanted to trace their footsteps so I could find inspiration for a new chapter in my own art. But what I discovered was the courage to face my fears, inhibitions and imperfections.
“Dreaming of Paris” is a sketch of the elegant Eiffel Tower lit up at night against the soft glow of the night’s sky. This Limited Edition of 10 Lucite Prints, each museum-quality, signed, and numbered is available as 26.5″ x 36″ x 1.5″ with a floating aluminum hanging system and cleat.
“French Reflections I”
“French Reflections I” is a nod to the rural landscape in Provence, France. These fields were my space to be free and just sketch. Knowing that no-one was watching helped me embrace creative freedom. Now this piece hangs in the ALG Fine Art helping viewers take a pause and be transported to rural France where time knows no bounds.
“Lavender Fields”
During my stay in France, I found myself getting bolder and more confident with my work. I didn’t want this piece to be a traditional lavender field, but rather an expression of color and emotion.
I used rich blue tones for the field, with a vibrant cerise pink as the lavender, giving it contrast and depth. I’ve had comments that this piece really shows courage which is definitely how I felt as I rediscovered my artistic voice.
“Let It Grow”
Using shattered glass pieces, of purples and greens, this piece showed the hazy sky against the French landscapes. The colors of the tree and grass are totally unconventional because I wanted viewers to experience the landscape not as it appears to the eye, but the emotion that nature stirs within us.
The carefully chosen glass pieces contrast with the soft sky, balancing each other to create something beautiful.
This exhibition has brought me such healing and peace. I’m finally myself again, and it truly all started in Paris.
“It Started in Paris”, a mixed media, museum-quality kaleidoscoped lucite prints, and glass art exhibit, will run through to April 12 at ALG Fine Art.
Join us and be transported to Paris, Arles, Giverny and beyond. One thing I know is how much art can teach us about ourselves, whether you are creating it, viewing it or the subject of it. It can spark conversations, make space to inspire us to create beautiful art for our homes and offices. And, maybe you might want to sit down with an easel, too.