Looking back at my life and the elements that have defined me, the one thing that stands out above all others is the deep-seated need to express myself through art. Art and the process of creation is the first thing I think about in the morning and the last thing that fills my mind at the end of each day.
As an essentially self-taught artist, I have been able to find my own truths and artistic paths along the way. I am naturally curious and fervid when it comes to understanding new techniques, making the self-learning process a challenge I enjoy.
Today, I continue with a concentration on the use and application of the many creative software programs that advance creativity, such as digital and original paintings and mixed media collage art. I have found that having a comfort level and understanding of the computer and its sophisticated software has provided an added opportunity for artistic experimentation and problem-solving.
Through the years, I have studied printmaking, drawing, painting, and graphic design, and I feel fortunate to have had a very successful career in that extremely competitive field. While art is by nature intuitive and emotive, my process is quite straightforward. I approach each new piece knowing that it requires a correct set of elements bound together with creative resolve, with the ultimate goal being a perfected visual exposition. I am experimental to a considerable degree, but my guiding goal is to create with a combination of intuition and a clear sense of artistic balance.
Tom Meade Painting Using photographs as reference, I paint landscapes with oils on canvas.
Art makes my heart feel good.
My Path was a Masters Degree in Interior Design. For 20 years i designed model homes. I could not always find the appropriate theme or color palette in selecting art for model homes, so i picked up a paintbrush and started painting.
Now that I am retired from the world of design, I continue to receive such satisfaction in painting!
Fun, bright, and graphic are “a few of my favorite things.”
Mixed media is tugging at me right now. It allows one’s imagination to travel and be limitless to possibilities. I hope my art leaves a bright spot in your day!
I am a recent transplant to Arizona, and I love it! I have always lived “up north” and worked in several different genres that mostly represented the area in which I dwelled, but I have always been drawn to the art and warm colors of the Southwest.
This move has inspired me to experiment with a new genre – metal embossing. By using various metal foils such as copper, aluminum and brass, I emboss them with a multitude of patterns using a rolling press, and color with alcohol inks.
Once dried and stabilized with a protectant coat, I then cut them into various sizes and shapes to achieve my design.
The mosaic pieces are somewhat like a jigsaw puzzle – I quit to design it and make sure all the pieces fit perfectly. Some of my work will incorporate leather and glass tile beads to achieve a multi-dimensional look.
“Art is spiritual for me and brings me a great fulfillment , which I hope is reflected in my work.”
Hi! I am Linda Sanders. I’ve been a member of the Wickenburg Art Club for many years. I have been a jewelry lover all my life and started making jewelry about 35 years ago.
I specialize in using gemstones, pearls, high-quality crystals and sterling silver. Lately, I have been focusing on making Southwestern-style necklaces and earrings using sterling silver and turquoise.
I pay special attention to the composition and colors of each precious piece. I shy away from gemstones and metals that aren’t genuine. I use professional grade wire for stringing and use special findings to make my jewelry strong and long-lasting.
My styles are varied and unique. I have worked full-time as a Wickenburg real estate agent for 31 years and continue to do so, but I find time to do local arts and craft shows and Wickenburg Art Club events. Ten years ago, I started a monthly craft show that benefits the Wickenburg Public Library that supports both the library, the community and the participating artists.
My jewelry craft and the other artisans that I have met and worked with over the years have enriched my life immensely.
Bio
Carol has always been a creator, starting with sewing doll clothes and then designing and sewing her own clothing. Over the years she has used a variety of mediums with her creative artwork. Her expressive voice is currently through leather.
Her passion is to sculpture free-form leather vessels, she works with a variety of leathers and embellishments’ for designing her artwork. The vessels are made from vegetable-tanned leather and are truly a one-of-a-kind creation. The leather has the longevity and beauty only an artisan-created product can sustain. The original fibers of the animal’s hide add to its character making each piece unique along with her addition of dyes, stains and paints.
Carol graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a teaching degree, majoring in photojournalism. Upon graduation, her career in the hospitality industry started in Nebraska and crisscrossed the US several times, working for many major hotel companies as well as independent resorts landing in Scottsdale in 1992.
Artist Statement
Leather inspires me since it offers many possibilities with the different textures and finishes. My vision of how the leather wants its history and story represented is reflected and carried forward in my artwork. At times the hides seem to speak to me on how they want to be portrayed from an artistic viewpoint.
I hand select each vegetable tanned leather hide embracing all the holes, markings and texture knowing the original fibers of the hide add character. These unique features are purposely worked into the artwork creating interest and a focal point. This leather has the longevity and beauty only an artisan-created product can sustain.
Each vessel is hand sculpted using a wet free-form molding process and dried naturally. My selection of stains, dyes and special finishes makes my one-of-a-kind leather vessels unique.
My greatest joy comes from seeing the finished pieces since no two leather hides are exactly alike because each has a different history.
Bio
Sharon Hernly is a gifted tradition artist whose childhood within the enchanting landscapes of rural New Mexico profoundly influences her creative vision. Infused with the vibrant spirit and color palette of Southwestern culture, history, and landscapes, her oil painting transcend art – they are a heartfelt journey that celebrate the region’s rich past and dynamic present.
A lifelong love of art has guided Sharon’s path. To refine her skills and achieve her goal of becoming a master painter, she sought mentorship from renowned master artist and teacher Stefan Baumann. She continues to deepen her artistic expression through workshops and online classes, constantly striving for artistic growth.
Cherished by collectors and art enthusiasts alike, Sharon’s work graces private collections across the United States and Europe.
Now residing in Arizona, she draws endless inspiration from its breathtaking vistas and cultural richness. Through her creations, Sharon invites viewers to share in her artistic journey—one defined by passion, perseverance, and an enduring connection to the Southwest.
Bio
Paul Dolter is a retired Air Force Civil Engineer, and a retired District Engineer for the East Valley Water District located in Highland, California.
His keen interest in Photography began in 1968 when he was introduced to photography using 35mm film.
Upon retiring from Engineering in 2005, he devoted more time to perfecting the art and craft of digital photography with more sophisticated cameras and computer techniques.
This innovative gear has allowed him to transcend the traditional typical photo techniques used by photographers to the more unique renditions only previously enjoyed by gifted artists through their respective media.
He has enjoyed photographing a wide variety of subjects such as beautiful western landscapes, colorful Sunsets, interesting people, charming animals and the abundance of incredible artwork created by club members.
When appropriate, he has used enhancement tools the emphasize the more distinctive aspects of the subject matter.
Paul has entered several local and statewide competitions and has enjoyed receiving numerous awards for his impressive work.
In many instants, Paul has sold his work or was compensated handsomely for his photographic services!
