Drawing ideas in her sketchbook is how Beth begins each piece. Using the elements of art (line, shape, value, texture, color and space) and design principles (emphasis, pattern, contrast proportion, balance, rhythm and movement, and harmony) she learned in art school, she examines the first round of sketches.
Under painting is the foundation of all of Beth’s pieces. She likes to work with complimentary colors to see the strength of each hue. How they react to each other, how they portray a mood, and how they affect the viewer are key to her choices. There is a lot of mixing and blending on her palette. She then begins to paint. Some music or a podcast helps too.
Once the raw painting is on the canvas or paper substrate she begins to add details with collage, charcoal, and pastels. Papers used in collage have been hand painted and printed by Beth. The patterns and color combinations are primarily acrylic on rice paper. Often there are imprints of natural materials from her surroundings.
When she is satisfied with the work she takes it to the mirror to see a reverse image. The design elements will show, without the brain consciously making corrections.
The signature, a wire, a title and the artwork is ready to leave the studio. The piece now has its own life, going on a journey Beth could never predict as she lifted her brush for the first time.