painters
Artist Statement
Ann Carlisle Beyer
I have drawn and painted most of my life, but it was not until after my children had grown and moved away that I began to spend daily time in my studio. Despite recent illnesses, I keep to this routine. I have summered in New Hampshire at a family compound all my life. I have looked since childhood at huge white pines just across the lawn from our house. The current Grandfather Pines series is based upon this. Now I have my own studio nearby where I can continue painting these wonderful colors and light.
My muses lie mostly in the beauty and complexities of nature. The strength and underpinning of trees, the elegance of flowers, and the amazing power of animals fascinate me. These subjects enter my dreams, too, which I paint from time to time.
I paint mainly in oils and am happiest working in a slightly larger format, which allows more freedom of movement. Some subjects, however, call for smaller set-ups, so I am free to use watercolor, gouache and ink. I have been fortunate to travel widely, always taking a sketchbook. Painting to me is always a meditation, whether it is in a small sketch or a watercolor or large oil. I enjoy being admitted to such a world of senses and color and touch.