Connie Athman, Watercolor
Why do I paint? I try to record my emotions from all the inspired beauty I see in the natural world and in particular the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. I have also been inspired by 25 years of working on our public lands. It’s been a privilege - with the natural world a constant creative source. I think it’s important to be reminded of, and to hold a part of that natural beauty in us every day.
My art style is representational – to a degree. I try to let the scene inspire the color and design and stay true to the mood without letting the details overrun the painting. Watercolor, and in particular, transparent watercolor allows me to let my interpretations easily flow onto the paper. The beauty of watercolor is how it mixes and moves on the paper, which I try to let happen on its own.
I paint my own world. Sometimes it’s the everyday ordinary that can be the inspiration. Painting has caused me to look at everything with a closer eye; to notice colors, lights and shadows that are all around me. I’ve painted for about 10 years and I feel I’ve learned so much, but there is so much more – I don’t think I’ll ever tire of the possibilities. I paint for the pure joy of it!
My art style is representational – to a degree. I try to let the scene inspire the color and design and stay true to the mood without letting the details overrun the painting. Watercolor, and in particular, transparent watercolor allows me to let my interpretations easily flow onto the paper. The beauty of watercolor is how it mixes and moves on the paper, which I try to let happen on its own.
I paint my own world. Sometimes it’s the everyday ordinary that can be the inspiration. Painting has caused me to look at everything with a closer eye; to notice colors, lights and shadows that are all around me. I’ve painted for about 10 years and I feel I’ve learned so much, but there is so much more – I don’t think I’ll ever tire of the possibilities. I paint for the pure joy of it!
