"My paintings are strongly influenced by my love of photography. I enjoy capturing an image, that represents a moment in time, of something I’ve recognized as beautiful or unique. It is often the flaws of my subject that I find most interesting.I typically paint my subject, or primary focal point, in a realistic style with the background elements depicted as abstract representations of my subject’s surroundings: impressions of shape, color, texture, and mood. I want this contrast to add visual drama to my paintings.As an idea is transferred from my mind’s eye to the paper, I go through a roller coaster ride of emotions, arriving back at a place of peace. Upon completing a painting, I find satisfaction in reaching my goal of capturing a feeling associated with a memory, thus giving it permanence for me. I have so many happy childhood memories of the beaches on the Texas coast, and as a result, I especially enjoy painting birds and water. Much of my early work was done with pastels, and to switch to watercolor required a spontaneous attitude that was difficult for this perfectionist to master. My biggest challenge is knowing when a painting is finished.
I want my colors to be vivid watercolor does not have to be pale and muted. I love color and contrast.”
- Mary Catherine Gardner
