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The Art Conversations
Winter, 2022
Each season, I like to take a little time to reflect on the stories that have brought me to where I am. Art especially, tells the tale of our hopes and fears, our loves, our strains, and our silent nights. It is in recognizing and reclaiming the worth of these moments that we begin to appreciate all we have. Along with the storyline, I'd also like to share a bit about what inspired me about my choice of medium. Please enjoy this season's art conversations. "Delia"
digital illustration, 2007/2014 
ABOUT THE STORY
from "A New Leaf", a hand-illustrated mini-chapbook by ef grace: "Delia wanted to be a star But her head was in the clouds She was talented by far But never spoke aloud Focus on your dream, dear girl Don't let yourself forsake it. You really can have the world, But you're the one who has to take it!" ABOUT THE MEDIUM This illustration is part of a series of hand-drawn images in my mini chapbook A New Leaf. Within the rhyming tale, are stories of real people, their struggles, and resolutions they made to turn over a new leaf. It was originally created in a Kolo paper album with colored pencil and ink. Years later, I decided to digitally enhance this image of "Delia", to bring out the vivid colors and dramatic lighting of the scene. "Firetree Fountain"
acrylic on canvas paper, 2014 
ABOUT THE STORY
Ok... Imagine a romantic adventure on a magical, alien winter planet. Okay... I'm a hopeless romantic and a sci-fi geek-- admitted! :) ABOUT THE MEDIUM This painting began with a delightful fast brushing of metallic paints to create the fountain. The inky black curls of the branches and the pungent firey blossoms were a sheer delight to paint. |
"Truffle"
acrylic on canvas paper, 2015 
ABOUT THE STORY This painting depicts elegant flair, buoyant style, and decadent delight. It is the taste of berries and champagne with chocolate truffles... It is shimmering, effortless glamour, with a touch of effervescent whimsy. Feel it. Own it. Be it. ABOUT THE MEDIUM The gorgeous swirls of deep red not only depict my "e", but also represent elements of makeup, beauty, and fashion. They are fun and flouncy against the fresh white background, giving off a feeling of modern editorial glamour and unapologetic confidence. "Hush"
acrylic on paper, 1999 
ABOUT THE STORY When I first was on my own, taking the city bus to get around was a daunting new reality. Though a sweet bus driver helped me find my way across town, once the doors closed and spit me out onto the street, I was on my own again. Fearful of black ice and shadows in the distance, I walked as quickly and carefully as possible. The loneliness of that long, dark walk up and down the icy hill home chilled me more than the winter night air. Even worse, no one would even be there waiting for me to arrive safely home. The streaming tears always froze my cheeks and soaked my scarf by the time I got there. One evening though, there was a soft hush to the city. The dark sky had softened into a warm lavender, and in an act of mercy, released a swirl of soft snowflake kisses to usher me home. My fears were hushed as I followed the moon's path and instead, walked in wonder. Though aware of it, there was no need to focus on what was behind or ahead of me. I only had myself, that moment, and how I chose to experience it. ABOUT THE MEDIUM This painting was created as soon as I got in the house that night. I grabbed the first brush I could find and quickly swabbed the vision onto paper. Though the brush was fat and wet, it helped portray the looming shadows and the hazy, watery glow of the snowy scene. I hurried so as not to forget the details of the moment-- the gradient of purple sky, the luminescent snow, the frosty moon--before they faded from memory. It's been many years since that night, but this painting helps me remember it clearly. "Velvet & Frost"
acrylic on cardstock, 2015 
ABOUT THE STORY
Bathed in enchanting holiday lights, this lovely lady swirls across the shimmering ice. Delightfully proud and carefree, she lets her festive spirit shine! ABOUT THE MEDIUM This painting was created directly onto red paper, creating both a challenge and a delight in making the subject stand out against it. The metallic clouds provide texture, depth, and ambiance, while her jaunty pose and festive outfit add cheer. |
EF GRACE
ARTS. INSPIRATION. LIFESTYLE. DESIGN.
ARTS. INSPIRATION. LIFESTYLE. DESIGN.
efgracearts@gmail.com | efgrace.com | @efgracearts
visual arts * design * illustration * writing * multimedia * custom services
visual arts * design * illustration * writing * multimedia * custom services
c. ef grace 2021.