I came across Betsy Walton’s work on Etsy last week and also found her website. She does intricate gouache paintings that are full of layers and delicate lines. I just love them and have found them to have influenced my latest drawing (which isn’t quite done). It can be very informative to study art work that you are interested in and think about what it is that you enjoy about it–what drew you to it. Is it her imagery or narrative? Is it her mark-making or composition? Is it her bold colors or self-conscious lines? I really like all the detail she adds to her drawings, juxtaposed with what she leaves out. I love that she uses gouache and pencil–not afraid of making art that is delicate and subtle. Her drawings feel free, like she isn’t hemmed in by a certain style or sticking with a specific theme. The goal lately for my own drawings and embroideries is to infuse them with layers, to keep them loose, and not so sure-footed. Walton’s work is a lovely and inspiring example of this.
Dear Mrs. So & So, by Betsy Walton (Currently on display at Together Gallery in Portland, OR.)
