Portland artist Liz Hoag is surrounded by beautiful views and vistas daily. She finds them in her backyard and her home state, as well as in the places she visits. However, just because a beautiful scene is captured in her memory, it doesn't mean it will be captured on her canvas.
"There are many beautiful places I know aren’t made for my paintings," says Liz Hoag. "On a recent artist residency, I noticed this every day."
Bear Cove 16x20 $1500
An artist's palette, brush, canvas, and process are all incredibly personal. Each artist holds a vision of what they want to reproduce and hold in paint forever. Also, they each have a style that is recognizable and unique.
"The beautiful cliff views, the vast ocean right outside my studio, and sunrises from my bedroom window made for amazing days but not necessarily paintings I wanted to paint," explains Hoag.
Spring Farm 18x24 Acrylic $1600
"The contrast between my choices and the choices of the other two artists with me during this residency made it clear that I had an apparent cut way of choosing my subject matter," shares Hoag. "In this show, I painted several pieces during this residency, but I also have memories of other beautiful places."
Hoag's paintings are only a slice of her memory. They suit her artistic vision and make her feel good.
"Working with friends on this summer trip taught me more about what I need from work."
The Path Up 40x30 $4400
Back Yard 20x16 $1500
This show opens on Saturday, August 17, at 10 am at Shows on Maine Art Hill, 5 Chase Hill Road, Kennebunk.
The show runs until September 11, and the gallery is open every day at 10 am. FMI call 207-967-2803 or visit www.maine-art.com.