One of the things I love about being a Resident Artist at ALG Fine Art is that I find inspiration from the artists working alongside me. Over the past few weeks, our newest Resident Artist, Lisa Moriarty, has been in the final stages of preparing for her first solo art show at the gallery called “Breathing Space.”
When she talks about the stories behind these pieces, the California coast is a strong image and source of inspiration. I can see it in the colors, movement, and peaceful atmosphere of the artwork.
It got me thinking about how place is a source of inspiration in my own artwork. It’s often while traveling or even just going out of town to visit family that creativity sparks. The new landscapes and their unique sensory experiences make me want to create.
As Lisa explores in her artwork, it’s not just the physicality of a place but also the memories created there that tie us to them. Scenes become symbols of the human experience.
To celebrate the opening of “Breathing Space” at ALG Fine Art until June 27th, here are a few of my own artworks where place has been important to the creative process.
Let It Be I & II
This was a real lesson in letting go of what you see and embracing what you feel. As I was trying to capture the mountain that Cezanne painted many times, the light kept changing. I let my initial frustration go and let it be, not worrying about getting the depiction right but letting it form organically.
Forward
A glass diptych, “Forward” is inspired by the juxtaposition of old and new in Santorini, Greece. Places don’t only allow us to travel geographically but also back in time to what came before, and even into the future and what is to come.
Found
“Found” is a celebration of what it feels like to go somewhere new. This piece highlights the sanctity of opening up to new experiences and processing all that you discover. Newness sparks creativity, the fuel of the artist.
Jelly Palace II
This mirror artwork looks below the surface to the hidden gems of a place. I spent time studying glass art in Murano. “Jelly Palace II” gives a nod to the jellyfish I saw along the Grand Canal, hinting at a seaweed-enveloped world of jellies, palaces, and elegance below the surface.
Blue Waves III
If you know me, you know I love to be near the water. I spent many a day at Lake Marie in Antioch, Illinois and Cedar Creek Lake in Texas, studying and painting the rippling movements of the water in watercolor. “Blue Waves III” is a symbol of my admiration for places by the water.
I’m excited to see where I will visit next and how the place will inspire my future art. I’m also very excited for more people to discover Lisa Moriarty and the rhythm of the Northern California coast in “Breathing Space.” Visit ALG Fine Art to explore both of our artworks.
