Pat Konicki graduated from American Academy of Art and began her career as a graphic designer and illustrator in Chicago. After relocating to Miami, she opened a graphic design and advertising firm focused on clients in the fashion, retail, healthcare, and manufacturing industries.
Looking past the obvious, close observation and engagement of the image is her process. The challenge is to see beyond the distraction of the decay, abandoned or dismissed and capture its splendor. Some of the subjects are quite ordinary, others less so.
As a current and long-time resident of the Carolinas, Pat derives much of her inspiration from her surroundings. Her use of watercolor offers a unique detailed study of often forgotten treasures found in the rural areas.
Pat is an award-winning artist and an active member of several organizations, including the American Watercolor Society. Many of her works are now licensed by McGaw Graphics, Inc., and her art has been exhibited in galleries and art centers throughout North and South Carolina.
Statement
My particular interest is the conjunction of beauty and antiquity of rural life in the Carolinas. The use of watercolor offers a unique detailed study of often forgotten treasures and seeks to explore the way an alternate perception of an otherwise overlooked subject can provoke an emotional or imaginative response.
The art uses themes of decomposition and deterioration to evoke feelings like loss, urgency, and beauty, which prompts viewers to connect with environmental issues on a personal level. Various watercolor methods used can depict ecological changes, to convey both the beauty of nature and encourage reflection on consumption and neglect, thus igniting value and rationale for protection or restoration.
The challenge is to see beyond the distraction of the decay, abandoned or dismissed and capture its splendor. Some subjects are quite ordinary, others less so. My goal is to inspire the viewers to look more carefully at the world around them and discover beauty in unusual places.