Featuring: Whose Head is Under the Hat

Artwork by: Lisa Bartell

Artist statement:

At the age of thirty three I began to recover memories which altered my perception of who I am and the family in which I grew up. Since this time, my creative work has been inspired by the development and transformation of identity.

 My painting process is like a return to my childhood habit of staring at wood grain and discovering odd faces and figures. Recently, I have combined this process with very basic drawings of a central figure combined with writing about my intention. Each painting begins with roughing in the focal point and brushing light and  dark hues in various directions creating nebulous forms. Standing back from the canvas begins the search for lines, shapes and forms that connect with the primary character. Imaginary yet recognizable imagery begins to appear. The painting continually transforms through color and brushstrokes, creating an organic and abstract composition. I create texture by scratching through the surface with toothpicks, palette knives and altering the consistency of paint. Childhood symbols are always a part of each painting: windows, crooked houses, ladders and misshapen geometric patterns. My goal is to create a colorful cast of characters in a performance of their own self identity.

Reception: April 3, 2020 6pm-8pm

Gallery Hours: Tuesday-Friday 1:00-5:00 pm and Saturday 10:00 am -4:00 pm