Passages in Light: A Visual Journey from Sketchbook to Canvas
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April 5, 2024
5:00 pm
Pittsford Fine Art, 4 N. Main St.
As a painter deeply inspired by the beauty of the natural world, Maureen Church is thrilled to present her featured artist exhibition, “Passages in Light: A Visual Journey from Sketchbook to Canvas.” This exhibition reveals her artistic process, inviting viewers to delve into the evolution of her plein air paintings, from the intimate sketchbook studies to the grandeur of the final studio works.
At the heart of this exhibition are the small sketchbook studies, capturing spontaneous moments en plein air. These delicate and raw sketches serve as the initial sparks of inspiration, reflecting the authenticity of Church’s encounters with nature. Through these small yet vibrant studies, she aims to convey the essence and energy of the landscapes that have captivated her.
“Following the sketchbook studies, I transitioned to working with oil paints en plein air, allowing me to further explore and interpret the ever-changing light and atmosphere,” said Church. “These paintings, created on location, reflect a deeper engagement with the environment, as I strive to capture the nuances of color, value, composition and texture that can only be experienced in the great outdoors.”
The culmination of this process is revealed in the final studio works, where the small studies and plein air paintings serve as the foundation for larger, more immersive compositions. In the studio, Church has expanded upon the initial impressions, delving into the intricacies of each scene and infusing the works with a sense of depth and emotion, creating a visual dialogue between the raw energy of nature and her introspective lens.
Through “Passages in Light,” Church invites you to witness the evolution of her artistic practice, from the initial moments of inspiration in the field to the contemplative refinement in the studio. By revealing this process, she hopes to offer a glimpse into the profound connection between artist and landscape, and to inspire a renewed appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us.
