Susan Helmer

Artist Statement

Some of my work is inspired by slices of minerals such as Picture Jasper. These slices are abstractions all by themselves but I do use Photo Shop to further 'abstract' my photographs before starting to paint. I paint on stretched silk with liquid dyes. Before the dye is applied a resist is used to contain the colors. Using watercolor techniques and brushes, the silk is then painted. Some pieces have added texture through the use of dye crayons. The finished piece is then steamed for at least three hours to set the dyes. Finally the piece is stretched over archival foam core and framed.