Artist Statement

"Is it true? Is it good? Is it useful?” This Socratic test has guided my work as a professional graphic designer - now it guides my hand as I tell my own stories.

As in graphic design, my goal is to simplify and create clarity. The process of painting a scene allows me to express the joy and wonder found in it - releasing both my mind and the image from clutter. I endeavor to show the viewer more of what I see by leaving out the unnecessary, while also giving them more to think about. I want my art to speak to viewers so that they can find what is true, good and useful in their own stories.

My favorite subjects are boats and scenes from my home in Annapolis or travels beyond, figures, still life, and abstracts.

As the daughter of two artists/craftsmen the rich shapes and color combinations buried in my psyche often appear. I consider myself fortunate to have been raised as an artist among artists.

Background

Dorothy received a BFA in Advertising/Design from Moore College of Art. She has been practicing as a graphic designer/art director for 30+ years. She began studying oil painting in 2019 with Walter Bartman, founder of the Yellow Barn Studios in Glen Echo, MD.