Outdoor

Stephanie Thwaites

Novato, CA

"I find inspiration in nature — the freedom of its organic shapes, the endless variation of colors, the ever-changing light. But I am also drawn to architectural and geometric forms — their order, structure, and alignment. My work is often about seeking balance and harmony between these two influences."

From representational to abstract, I strive to create dynamic space that is intricate and layered, but still grounded. I hope the work invites exploration — a path emerging for the viewer to look, and then look again more closely, traveling into the depth of the painting.

My painting process is also an emerging path. I often do not have a fixed vision of my destination when I begin. Instead, I enjoy working intuitively and responsively, one step leading to the next, exploring different techniques and materials to uncover something unseen or unexpected.

I paint with oil and cold wax because they complement my love of rich texture and impart a lovely translucent quality and matte finish.

I am a graduate of the Yale University Fine Arts program. After a 20-year career as a creative director and brand manager, I returned to my fine arts background in 2009. I work out of my studio at Marin MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art) in Novato, and have shown my work through solo shows as well as in many national and local juried shows and galleries.