Sarah Graves is a nature artist who specializes in watercolor. With a B.S. and M.S. in life science, she is a scientist by day, and has carried this into her art through her curiosity and love of experimentation. Although not a classically trained artist, Sarah grew up drawing and discovered painting when she was in grad school. She began enhancing her art through classes at the Nadine Baum Art Studio and private lessons. Later she discovered the independence of handywork and began teaching herself woodworking. She often incorporates wood into her work for its natural aesthetics, sometimes finding inspiration in the wood grain itself.
Her style is a contradiction - both thoughtful yet thoughtless, quiet yet fierce, gentle yet wild. Dripping paint and splatters are her signature. She leaves out detail in order to capture the spirit and mood of the work. Her art has been featured in Local Color Studio Gallery in Fayetteville, at Art on the Bricks in Rogers, and as a mural in downtown Rogers.
Born in the Delta, she later fell in love with the Ozarks and resides in Fayetteville, Arkansas. She works in her home studio or adventures to natural settings. Exploration is the fuel for her creations. Whether she is mountain biking the deserts of the west, traversing a rainy forest by foot, or swimming the rivers of Arkansas, she finds beauty in every moment.
Statement
As a watercolor artist, my intention is to forge a profound connection between the viewer, the natural world, and our inner selves. Through my paintings, I strive to evoke a visceral response, aiming for a genuine and heartfelt connection with those who encounter my work.
Expressive movement lies at the core of my artistic exploration. Whether capturing birds soaring through the sky, humans caught in moments of falling or dancing, or subjects breaking free from constraints, I seek to embody the essence of freedom and self-expression. With each stroke of my brush, I experience a sense of liberation, and I hope to convey this exhilaration to the viewer.
In our daily lives, societal norms, complexities, stigmas, misconceptions, and expectations often cloud our vision. My paintings serve as a refuge, offering a respite from these burdens and an opportunity to relax and refresh the mind. By immersing oneself in my art, a shift in perspective can occur, allowing a renewed appreciation for the beauty of life, which may have faded amidst the chaos.
Just as the act of creation brings healing to my own soul, I seek to extend this solace to others. By inviting viewers to engage with the natural world and the expressive movements within my paintings, I hope to awaken a profound sense of connection, introspection, and emotional release. It is my sincere desire that my art acts as a catalyst for healing, inspiring viewers to embrace their own journey of self-discovery and find solace in the transformative power of artistic expression.
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