I read somewhere that creativity is putting your imagination to work and that it’s produced extraordinary results in human culture.

With its vast beauty, Northern California and the foothills of the Sierra have shaped my art. Applying the skills I’ve acquired through many years painting outside directly from life, I also find great excitement and happiness in breaking out of the pattern of representational work by making abstract and mixed media paintings. I often use collage papers I paint myself for their variation and distinction.

I’m a native Californian and some of my subjects have included trees, mountains, old buildings and waterways as well as birds and other animals. When painting outside I interpret what I see, the reflection of light and color, and apply paint to canvas to communicate visually. I believe the impression of the moment is something people can relate to – something they’ve seen and experienced before.

I’m also very attracted to painting abstracts using paint alone or using a variety of papers for mixed media pieces. This is more of an exploration, sometimes planned and sometimes unknown, that takes me along a path that unfolds as I go. Looking at the world in a different way allows me to break free of set patterns.

Whether working representationally or abstractly, I find my work gives me joy. My hope is that viewers will connect with the mystery and beauty of this world in some small way too.   

To see more of Annie’s work, go to: www.anniefountain.com