Welcome to Olsonstudio1.com

PLACE OF BIRTH: Wisconsin

YEARS IN PRESCOTT: 5 years. 

FAVORITE MEDIUMS: Currently, I am using acrylics, gel mediums, gold leaf, collage papers, hand-painted papers, fabrics, and found objects.

FAVORITE SUBJECT MATTER: Right now I am painting Southwestern subjects and florals.

ARTISTIC STYLE: My work is usually semi-abstract. I like to start with a concrete subject, then use paint and collage materials to embellish the idea. My use of color expresses some feelings I have about the subject.

MENTORS & TEACHERS: I have had several mentors who have influenced me in different ways. All have been encouraging critics. Each one has enhanced my knowledge of art and art materials and pushed me to new limits.

FAVORITE ARTISTS: Lately I’ve been reading about various colorists, Helen Frankenthaler, Richard Diebenko, and others. I also would like to have lunch with Georgia O’Keefe !

ARTISTIC JOURNEY: I have been interested in art all of my adult life. In the 70’s, I began taking classes in drawing, oils, then watercolor. Collage has become my focus because I love the layering, textures, and color glazes. In 2006 I took a color class at Yavapai College and learned a lot about color balance and the effect of one color upon another. I continue to take workshops as a way of keeping my approach fresh.

PERSONAL PHILOSOPHY: I hope the viewer will have a conversation with my art. I don’t want to tell the entire story in a realistic way. The colors usually express a feeling or mood rather than the exact color of the subject. I enjoy using textures and creating layers to draw the viewer in for a closer look.

ACCOLADES: The Empty Bowls campaign chose my design for their T-shirt in 2007. In 2006, MAG chose my “Just Jugs” design for the publicity and Tshirt advertising the art shows on the Courthouse Square.

ART AFFILIATIONS: Besides MAG, I belong to Prescott Fine Arts Association and the Southwest Art Association.

SHOWS & GALLERIES: I’ve participated in Gallery showings at MAG and at PFAA.

OTHER INTERESTS: I am trying to learn to play a 36-string harp.