Birgitta Lapides: 2009

About the Artist

"I am an intuitive painter, one who paints entirely from imagination - never from photos. For me, colors, textures and forms are the most important elements in a painting, although I always feel inspired by the beauty of the landscape around me."

Painting and the fine arts have always been an integral part of my life. But it was as a weaver and clothing designer for many years- first in Sweden, where I was born, then in Belgium and France, and finally in the United States, that I learned the supreme importance of color and texture.

These elements, combined with the fabulous palette of Arizona's earth and sky, have inspired me both in my landscape and non-representational (abstract) painting. My art is an act of homage to the gifts of nature- and to the wonders of the imagination.

I began formal art education at L'Ecole Superieure D'Architecture et Art Applique' (La Cambre) in Brussels in 1977-79. I continued my studies at Pratt Institute in New York City (1980-82), receiving my A.A. degree in textile design in 1982.

I also studied drawing and painting at the Ecole des Beaux Arts in Cannes, where I displayed my work at a group show at the Palais des Festivals. I also had one-artist shows in New York City and in Jerome, Arizona. While living for many years in Frejus, France (where provence meets the Riviera) I operated my own studio/ workshop, where I sold hand-woven jackets of my design. The brilliant colors of sea, sky, and earth along the Mediterranean entered indelibly into my creative imagination.

I continue to study with well-known artists in workshops held in Sedona, Arizona, and regard my own evolving work in painting and collage as the essence of my journey through life. Freshness of vision and originality of concept are fundamental to my identity as artist.

You may contact Birgitta directly at: info@birgittalapides.com

Monday, September 7, 2009

Mixed Media Painting