“Most of my paintings start with color. Some of my greatest inspiration comes from other artists that loved color: Matisse; Monet; Rothko; Twombly; and Frankenthaler. I pull my color schemes from a multitude of places including nature, fashion, and print ads to create a piece that perfectly utilizes each hue. I start with composition sketches before I create the final piece. I enjoy working both flat or on the wall, while playing with different acrylic mediums to achieve a range of consistencies. Some work just flows out of me, while others develop slowly over time. I layer new ideas on top of old ones until the finished work has reached a place that achieves the balance I hope to find.

My approach to creating art is greatly influenced by the way I experience art. I connect best with work that lifts my spirits. I’m most engaged with art that reminds me to rise above my circumstances, while encouraging a sense of balance and peace. I strive to create work that does just that.

My gestural abstracts on paper are minimal. The fluidity of acrylics allows me to place a brush stroke here, a dollop there, until a composition is reached. White space is essential for creating clarity in these works. My paintings on canvas have more layers, but the goal is the same: Create something beautiful and balanced, allowing careful restraint to hint at a more complex feeling.”—Cait Courneya