of Winthrop Gallery
Ceramic artist Tamera Abate finds her inspiration in nature.
By Ann McCreary
Have you ever wondered where artists find inspiration, or how they translate their vision into a work of art?
The Winthrop Gallery’s new show, “How We Work,” provides insight into the creative process of artists.
The show opens Saturday (April 30) with a reception from 5–7 p.m. attended by participating artists. Refreshments will be provided.
The exhibit includes works of art by local artists in the cooperative gallery, accompanied by statements describing the inspiration and process behind their art. Photos of artists creating their work accompany pieces in the exhibit to help illustrate the creative process.
Not surprisingly, the natural beauty of the Methow Valley is cited as a source of inspiration for many of the artists.
For ceramic artist Tamera Abate, inspiration comes from “the colors in a summer sky, the velvet softness of flower petals, the scent of pine needles baking in the hot sun, and the melody of the meadowlark.”
Pastel and watercolor artist Laurie Fry finds inspiration during the many hours she spends roaming the Methow Valley and Cascade Mountains.
“I spend as much time as I can hiking, biking, skiing and photographing the places I love,” Fry said. She uses her photos as the basis for her paintings, “combining them to change the lighting, season or composition to my liking.”
Patty Yates found inspiration for a painting from a tub of fresh purple iris that appeared in Hanks Market in the middle of winter — a “spot of spring color.”
“This show is a great opportunity … to get to know us better as artists,” said glass artist Laura Aspenwall.
