Richlin Burnett-Ryan

Artist Statement

My art is an exploration of the materials I’m drawn to use in expressing my creativity. The journey taken is planned with the expectation of new discoveries. The ultimate goal is to push the boundaries and investigate the possibilities of what could be.

Discovering new possibilities is my favorite part of creating art; why I enjoy work with mixed media on canvas. This body of work explores the color play of tissue paper with acrylic paints and inks, which allow me to create amazing translucent color interactions and texture. I prefer to use the least toxic material due to over exposure to rubber cement early in my art career.

My process begins by removing all color and shade from my photographic reference. By reducing the image to a liner or solid black and white form on the canvas, I create drama with the dominant characteristics of my subject. I then reintroduce color to vacant spaces, sometimes overlapping the form. These abstracted color shapes create volume, shade and texture to the piece organically. I work intuitively mostly with some degree of planning. I intentionally use bold vivid colors because I want my work to be spiritually free and expressive to the viewer. I want the viewer of my work to feel my passion for the subject, and be transported into the world I create.

My goal as an artist is to encourage joy and freedom. Even in my more socially conscious works the use of vivid colors gives the viewer hope. I believe there is an inner spiritual navigator that allows me to trust in the discovery and eventual out come of my art. Not all is successful, however, the journey is always worth it.