SARAH GATEWOOD

I use painting to express how I think and painting abstractly helps me to visualize my emotions.  It becomes therapeutic.  All that I am feeling can bleed out onto the canvas and I can create a layered space of color and depth.  I try not to analyze the initial stages of the work too much because I want to remain open to the excitement of what is happening or about to happen.  I just paint.  The accidental shapes formed by spontaneous brushstrokes and flowing drips work together as a whole to create an expressive piece that reflects a specific moment in time.  When I look back at my paintings I realize how beautiful emotions are.  They are colorful and by themselves are a work of art.

 I was born in Springfield, MO in 1986 and raised in Nixa, MO.  In elementary school I became fascinated with colors and shapes and discovered my artistic talent.  Art class was my favorite part of school and the recognition and awards I received for my work encouraged me to continue doing it.  After High School I decided to pursue my love for art at Missouri State University where I graduated with honors with a Degree in Art and Design with an emphasis in painting.  Although I do enjoy painting in a naturalistic way, my freedom in the abstract grabs my attention to create new and interesting space on the canvas.