As a child in Michigan, I was fortunate to begin my first drawing lessons at the early age of 4. At 10, I was introduced to ceramics and my life-long passions for creating art was born! Studying Art at Western Michigan University gave me the opportunity to further my artistic skills in ceramics, watercolor, oil, mixed-media, weaving, , wood working and more.
My move to beautiful California challenged me artistically even more as I began studying Chinese Brush Painting. After six years of study in this ancient art form, I knew I had found my soul’s true artistic home! I continue my love for the Dynasty-old Brush Strokes, and have been painting, teaching, and exhibiting in this style for over three decades. The desire to be part of an artistic community led me to a wonderful studio on the Bay in Sausalito, where I was further inspired by the majesty of the water, incorporating my experiences into my paintings, as well as the ceramics I was now also creating. Living on my houseboat for ten years also added to the overall quest for dynamic serenity in my work and life.
My following move to Gualala totally fulfilled my passion for being part of a fantastic art community and I have been able to continue my painting while looking out of my studio window at the magnificent ocean. I am incredibly inspired to incorporate all these new visual and sensory experiences into my work, while continuing to utilize all the traditional Chinese techniques, balanced with a subtle contemporary flair. Ancient symbolism and philosophy continue to influence my work, enhancing the feeling of vital energy and serenity. The overall effect is for the viewer to be effortlessly invited into each painting, experiencing a peaceful balance and harmony in a timeless continuum.
I am very proud to have exhibited throughout the Bay Area, including the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco. My work is in many art collections around the world, including famous singers and actors. As I continue to share this wonderful ancient media, my wish is that each painting brings the viewer as much joy as it did me as I was creating it.
(415) 724-4014
Andreaallenart.com
andreaallenart@gmail.com
