2017-10-10
Daniel Hartman
Design Dispatch, New York
Sarah Ingraham's vibrant paintings challenge traditional notions of the still life genre by embracing a riotous palette and energetic brushstrokes. By pouring an overwhelming amount of colour onto her canvases, Ingraham creates dynamic and immersive works that defy the serene associations typically linked to this art form.
Embracing Chaos: Sarah Ingraham's Journey to Colourful Still Life
The world of still life painting has long been dominated by serene and serene compositions, featuring carefully arranged objects against a tranquil backdrop. However, in recent years, a new wave of artists has emerged, seeking to subvert this traditional form. For New York-based artist Sarah Ingraham, the notion of "the more chaotic the better" became a guiding principle in her creative journey.
For years, Ingraham found herself stuck in the studio, torn between pursuing her passion for painting and following a predetermined path. Her degree in studio art and art history from the University of Vermont had provided a solid foundation, but she struggled to find her unique voice. Meanwhile, her job as a screen printer allowed her to tap into her creative energy, albeit in a different capacity. However, it wasn't until she began experimenting with painting that Ingraham finally discovered her true calling.
As she delved deeper into the world of painting, Ingraham became increasingly fascinated by the concept of colour and its ability to evoke emotions and moods. She spent countless hours pouring over art historical texts, studying the works of artists who had come before her. However, it was when she started creating her own still life compositions that Ingraham truly began to find her footing. Gone were the days of carefully arranged objects against a monochromatic background; instead, Ingraham's paintings burst forth with colour and energy.
Ingraham's latest series, "Abundance," is a prime example of this newfound creative freedom. The works feature vibrant still life compositions, teeming with fruit, flowers, and other colourful objects. Each piece is imbued with a sense of joy and abandon, as if the artist has finally found the courage to let her hair down and allow herself to get lost in the process. "I want my paintings to feel alive," Ingraham explains, "like they're pulsing with energy." With "Abundance," Ingraham is on a mission to challenge traditional notions of still life painting and prove that chaos can be just as beautiful as serenity.
One of the key aspects of Ingraham's approach is her willingness to experiment with unconventional materials and techniques. Gone are the days of traditional paint-on-canvas; instead, she now works primarily with mixed media, incorporating a range of textures and mediums into her compositions. This approach allows her to create intricate, layered effects that add depth and visual interest to each piece. "I love pushing the boundaries of what's possible," Ingraham says, "and experimenting with new ways of working."
As we gaze upon Ingraham's latest works, it becomes clear that she has finally found a creative voice that is uniquely her own. While still life painting will never be dull or boring in Ingraham's hands, it's precisely this quality – the ability to balance order and chaos – that makes her art so compelling. With "Abundance," Ingraham is on the cusp of something truly remarkable, a body of work that promises to shake the foundations of the still life genre forever.
Throughout her journey, Ingraham has faced numerous challenges and setbacks. There were times when she doubted her ability to paint, and wondered if she was simply deluding herself. However, it's precisely this self-doubt that drove her to persevere. As she puts it, "I had to learn to trust myself, even when I didn't feel like I was doing anything right." This unwavering dedication has paid off in a big way, yielding works of staggering beauty and emotional resonance.
For Ingraham, the process of creating art is deeply personal and intuitive. She allows herself to respond instinctively to the world around her, often without thinking too much about the outcome. "I'm not always sure what I'm going to create," she admits, "but I know that it will be authentic." This willingness to let go and surrender to the creative process is a key aspect of Ingraham's approach.
While it's impossible to predict exactly where Ingraham's art will go from here, one thing is certain: her passion and dedication have earned her a reputation as one of the most exciting new voices in contemporary still life. As we look to the future, we can't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation – what will Sarah Ingraham create next? Will it be more vibrant, more energetic, or perhaps more introspective than ever before? One thing is for sure: with "Abundance," Ingraham has proven herself to be an artist who is unafraid to take risks and push the boundaries of what's possible.
Ultimately, Ingraham's art is a testament to the power of creativity and self-expression. Her journey is a reminder that it's never too late to pursue our passions, even when the world around us seems to be pushing in a different direction. As we gaze upon her vibrant still life compositions, we are reminded that chaos can indeed be beautiful – and that sometimes, the most stunning works of art are those that defy convention and challenge our expectations.
With "Abundance," Sarah Ingraham has firmly established herself as an artist to watch in the years to come. Her paintings will undoubtedly continue to spark conversations and inspire new generations of artists. As we bid her a warm welcome to the world of still life painting, we can't help but feel grateful for this incredible talent – one who is unafraid to take risks, push boundaries, and create art that is truly sublime.