Artists Statement
Prioities change especially as we grow older. The challenge becomes not to go backward, in philosophy or position, especially out of financial neccessity.
The philosophy takes care of itself, if you "stal cool" the financial not so much, I have learned that even when art occupies a special position in that philosoply, life gets in the way.
I invigorate my old bones and ideas, working everyday to keep inspiration alive by attempting what I would not have tried ten years ago. I look at the ordinary, finding my own drama in the flow of the water, the vibrant colors and strong values.
Watercolor is an exciting medium, full of challenge and obstinance. Even though I paint in a tight, realistic style, I use watercolors potential maximize expression. It's an oxymoron, literally.
Watercolor is a meddium finally coming into it's own, and is currently enjoying a level of appreciation and support that has never been notable in the past.
All over the world, watercolorists are upping their ante in the art market. Not since Communist Russia opened and realism enjoyed a revival in popularity, has there been such a resurgeuce and change in attitudes, '
It's about time.
Artist's Bio
I am a textbook portrait of a Baby Boomer, a worker bee all my life. I am a retired RN, having worked with premature babies for over 45 years.
I raised three children and have three grandchildren, maintained a home and worked full time. Art was always around, and I began to focus on watercolor after the Watermedia in Houston.
That was the catalyst for my blooming obsession with the medium. I am self taught and use my own photographs, sketches, and still life set ups as references.
Illness has slowed me down, and I had somne goals that seem unattainable, but I will always enjoy producing the kind of paitings that my viewers enjoy.
2010 - present
2010 - present
Education
I have earned sinature membershipin the Southern Watercolor Society, the Mid-Southern Watercolorists, the Texas and Louisiana Watercolor Societies. I have been accepted and won awards in many natinal watercolor exhibitions, in the Texas n' Neighbors International Exhibition in Irving, Texas and the Presidents's Award in the California Watercolor Exhibition.
Regionally, I have won 7 or 8 Best of Show awards and I have enjoyed winning at east six peoples choice awards as well as many 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places. I have been represented in gallerys regionally and have shown privately with two other artists in Shreveport, La., Bossier City, La., Texas A&M Texarkana, and in Dallas Tx. I have had a one man show in Hot Springs, Ar. in 2009.
I have taught classes and held workshops locally. I am a'pass president of the local art Association and have been responsible for some local art shows including the "Project Five".
I have twice shown in the Arkansas Governors Mansion and have been selected for the Arkansas Artists Calender in 2009, sponsed by the Governors Mansion.
I will continue to elevate the level of awarerness of watercolor as a visable, vibrant art medium, and to produce artthat will always entertain, educate, and be enjoyed by my viewers.
Carol Flori