Variations of Summer by Trisha Koeltzow

Variations of summer
Biography – I started painting about 2 years ago when I decided to find something that could just be “mine”, a way to prioritize doing something that didn’t revolve around work or kids or home, etc. I started by playing with watercolor on my own and following online tutorials but realized I wanted to explore the medium with more guidance. I signed up for Watercolor I with Continuing Education last fall and through that class really broadened my skills and taught me to appreciate different styles and techniques. Watercolor drew me in because it forced me to let go of control and instead appreciate how the medium can take on a life of its own and to appreciate the interplay of water and pigment. I love that watercolor allows me to get out of my own head and gives me an outlet totally separate from anything else in my life, letting me focus on creating something beautiful without any expectations. My biggest inspirations from the traditional art world would probably be a combination of blown glass art, with it’s fascinating play of light and translucency, and art that reflects surrealism and/or art deco style.