Marilyn Brown's Art Site
Artist's Statement & Bio
In childhood, my favorite pastime was drawing, coloring and painting. I would rather make clothes for my paper dolls than cut out the clothes from the books. I would try to copy pictures from magazines and found myself constantly doodling on the margins of my classroom notes and telephone pads. In high school, I wrote my career paper on being a commercial artist. Then the dream was lost as I was encouraged to pursue a more practical vocation. The dream remained unrealized as I became a wife, a mother, a nurse and later a pharmaceutical representative.
My quest began by studying art history, techniques and composition with numerous professional artists and the perusal of numerous art technique books. Initially, I attempted to reproduce what I saw as realistically as possible and although others applauded my efforts and purchased my work, I did not really feel like an artist. However, after I ceased worrying about the final product and began to enjoy the process of painting, I found “the artist within” my own soul.
I view myself as an experimental artist as I begin most of my works using the combinations of colors, textures, and a myriad of materials and listen to my subconscious instincts as the work develops. Even when painting realistic subjects, I try to add elements reflecting my own interpretations and attempt to induce a sense of surprise or mystery to the work.
Although I do not court failure, I do not fear it as I have found it spurs me to resolve the problems by trying new approaches. This helped me grow artistically as I am not concerned that each beginning will result in a successful work of art. I paint now to please my creative senses and not to please an audience. If others enjoy my work, it is a bonus.
When I am in the process of creating, my mind feels free of all the mundane worries and concerns around me and time escapes me. I am totally focused on the inner satisfaction of picking up the brush and handling the materials that will eventually come together to please my artistic senses.
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