Dawnstarstudios

Artist Statement: When asked why I create art, I am often taken aback by the question. It is not something I philosophize about, it is not something I do, it is something I am. It is the unchangeable nature that resides under my skin. My art flows from that un-knowable place within, and provides me a link between this material world and the invisible world beyond. The emotions I attempt to convey with my work are those secret, inexplicable, delicate emotions that are so difficult to articulate, such as reverent joy and spiritual melancholy.

I have been creating art since my consciousness first took hold, and have never ceased to do so. When in college I became acquainted with many of the classical techniques and materials needed to pursue and strengthen my passion, as well as the philosophy of striving to achieve balance in life by enhancing all forms of art, and constantly broadening the scope of imagination and mind’s eye.

My inspirations find me wherever I am, and whatever I am doing. Most often my inspirations come from nature, the colour and contrast I find there, but I also look to the past for themes and ideas. Illuminated manuscripts, iconography, cultural history, scents, sounds...all combine to inspire me to new work. It is not unusual for me to have tumbling images that come to mind randomly; how they come or where they come from is a product of the unknown.

Artists from the past that have influenced my work and whom I greatly respect include Gustav Klimt, Alphonse Mucha, John William Waterhouse, Evelyn De Morgan, and Bouguereau. Of course there are multitudes beyond those few, but it would take an entire page devoted to them to make a complete list. These artists, as I am also attempting, told stories from their souls. With each painting, you can almost have a glimpse into the artist's own world, and feel a connection with them through space and time. They taught me composition, colour theory, and execution with a passion that the art classes I took in college never could.


My goals for the future are simple. To keep creating art, to continue the flow from the Great Beyond to my soul and through my brush. Whether it is a commissioned work or an abstract painting, there is a spirit in every piece of art for those so inclined to find it. I want to keep challenging myself, and not to become stagnant. Limiting myself to one medium would be torturous. That is why my portfolio is so wide and varied; I enjoy trying new things and experimenting with techniques and materials. Sometimes it works, sometimes not, but I always learn something in the process. Thank you for spending a moment with me, and I hope you enjoy your visit to my world.

-Anya D. Starr
dawnstarstudios@gmail.com

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