My artistic influences are diverse, ranging from the Barbizon painters of Corot, Daubigny and Millet to the American tonalist, George Inness. I believe all I need to know of the principles of art are to be found in the works of the masters.

My paintings are not flamboyant, mysterious, trendy or shocking but I am interested in depicting the truth about life, as I see it, in a naturalistic way free of frills and bravado. I enjoy depicting simple, common, everyday life and its objects as things of beauty and worth. I intend to show the dignity and value of the subjects I paint – just as my artistic influences have. Through continued hard work I want to give to society paintings that transcend the culture and it’s ever changing tastes. . . paintings that speak to the heart.”

I invite you to explore my creations on platforms like Pinterest (Loreen Pitchford Art), Instagram (Pitchford.Art.Studio), and Etsy (Pitchford Art Studio for watercolor prints).

Pinterest: Loreen Pitchford Art

Instagram: Pitchford.Art.Studio

Etsy watercolor prints - Pitchford Art Studio

Etsy Original artwork paintings: Loreen Pitchford Art

Watercolors

One of the artistic mediums I find to be a constant companion is watercolors. I am particularly drawn to the translucent quality of watercolors, which adds a unique depth to my artwork. I carrying a small watercolor kit with me whenever I travel as it allows me to seize the inspiration that presents itself along the way. Also a lightweight digital camera (cell phone works great) to capture those fleeting and beautiful moments, which I can later use as references for my studio paintings.

If you’d like to create a small watercolor kit, like the one shown below, follow this link to instructions in my blog.

Encaustics

The encaustic hot wax process is a spontaneous medium where hot wax is applied to gesso wood panels. It is typically layered to create more opaque, or more translucent effects, and can be combined with colored wax or collage materials (like photos or paper). Each layer of wax can also be scraped, textured or polished for a variety of finishes.

After taking a workshop in encaustic wax, I became very interested in how I could use encaustic wax and photography. I set about practicing my new found skills melting bees wax and happily enjoying the warmth it creating in the studio during our long cold winter days - and, the bonus is the sweet honey smell that also permeates the space.

Media Art

New media art is artwork designed and produced by means of electronic media. This series is inspired by the weekly hikes along the mountain trails that display the changing seasons. Prints