I paint landscapes that I visit, hike, or experience in some way. My subjects in this exhibit include tidal rivers, river sunsets, a waterfall, an ocean cliff in the afternoon light, and the rivers and bays of Alaska.
Included in “Recent Works” are a series of Plum Island paintings, in both watercolor and oil. I am intrigued by the zigzag pattern of tidal rivers receding into the distance, and with the colors of soft, summer days reflecting in the water.
I have painted a number of river sunsets, brightly colored images of trees along a river edge. My watercolor entitled “Blue River Sunset” is one of a series of river sunsets. Working in series enables me to play with color combinations and experiment with various gradations possible with watercolor paints.
My family and I traveled to Alaska, and I found the landscape there astounding. “Braided River”, was painted from the base of Exit Glacier, with mist shrouded mountain peaks in the distance. I am intrigued in the woven patterns made by flowing water and glacial till. “Island and Spruce Trees” was painted from Resurrection Bay near Seward, Alaska, depicting glaciers and snow covered peaks along the coast. I have done a monotype of “Island and Spruce Trees” as well, working in this unique printmaking medium. Monotype allows me to approach painting in a different manner, building layers of transparent color, with multiple runs through the etching press.
I have been hiking some of the “4,000 footers” in the White Mountains, and found the inspiration for the waterfall painting on the way to Carter Dome. My theme running throughout this show seems to be water in all forms!
One work in this exhibit is a small oil painting inspired by the cool light and dark water of the North Atlantic coast off Monhegan. I enjoy studying the endless and always changing drama of steep rock cliffs with crashing surf, and golden afternoons.
The weather of early summer grew an abundance of flowers, and I took great delight in painting the complex layers of petals in armfuls of peonies. My other “not-so-still-life” subject matter is a series of birds done for the fun of capturing a colorful, avian attitude.
I am attracted to painting because there is always something to strive for, be it a better picture, improved technique, or a new place or bird you see that would make great subject matter. Being an artist is a life-long endeavor, a continual learning process that has intrinsic rewards and enriches my everyday existence.
Master of Arts in Teaching, major: Art Education, 1980
Bachelor of Arts, major: Studio Arts, 1978
Website
http://catherinetuttleart.com
