March 2006 Meeting
Guest Demonstrator: Brenda Swenson
Brenda Swenson is a California artist who finds inspiration traveling the back roads, byways, and quiet dirt lanes that crisscross the American West. In these out-of-the-way places, she is likely to find the promising subjects – the old trucks, historical buildings, and the weathered colorful places that testify to the region’s vigorous past. Beneath the layers of paint, rust and neglect, Brenda discovers stories just waiting to be told.
Brenda says, “Art has been a part of my life since I can remember. My formal training did not come until my late twenties when my children were in school and I had time for my own studies. I have always had a desire to be creative and painting just seems to fit my personality.
“I paint in watercolor because I enjoy the straightforward approach of this medium. I do not use any of the gimmicks you often see others use with this medium. I rely on my knowledge of design, color and technique. The look of watercolor has always held a fascination to me. When light travels through the many glazes of color and mixes before my eyes, there is a unique ‘magic’ that happens.
“I predominately use colors that are warm and that reflect ‘the joy of life.’ My goal is that my paintings can inspire a feeling of joy and peacefulness. I try to instill in my content the easy-going nature of my work.”
Brenda demonstrated in watercolor at the March meeting. Visit her website at www.swensonsart.net
She is also the author of Keeping a Watercolor Sketchbook published by Walter Foster.
