ANK-ART GALLERY

Welcome to my new galleries. Please link to the artwork by clicking on any of the above images.

Artist's Statement:

My paintings have always been influenced by the rhythm, texture, and dimensions of nature and science. Throughout the years my style has become more focused, though I constantly experiment with new media and subject matter - from still-life, people, societal issues and random autobiographical preoccupations.

Typically my work concentrates on visual relationships of layered geometric and organic forms – overlapped outlines of found objects or handmade stencils. Using a mix of acrylics and artist spray paints, I experiment with textures, raw edges and smooth airbrush effects, adding textured media, highlights and outlines in pastel and charcoal. Opposites are key in my work in color and composition. Along with beauty or vibrant colors there are melancholy, haunting qualities -- and always black and white. The resulting canvases have been described as “acknowledging the past and reaching for the future.”

Currently I’m focusing on a style more reflective of abstract expressionism. Most images are developed from sketches, photos, and largely imagination. Using multiple layers of acrylic washes and spray-paint, I build up the surface until I achieve a sense of movement and texture that are important components of my work - background is as important as foreground.. To me, these pieces appear to be “dynamic still-life” through the combination of media and complimentary colors as an energetic contrast of textures and tones.

Originally from Pennsylvania, Andrea took a detour lasting several years through Texas, Indiana, and Colorado before arriving in New Jersey ten years ago to focus on “color” – a combination of artwork and a career in the cosmetics industry. She moved to Bloomfield, NJ and began learning makeup formulation during the day, while taking painting classes in the evening. Though she is primarily a self-taught artist, she studied with Master Pastelist, Alex Piccirillo, for several years at Montclair Art Museum and Fairlawn Art Association, focusing on Representational Painting of Human Figure in charcoal and pastel.

She has received several commissions for portraits in pastel and abstracts in mixed media and has participated in several art shows in PA and NJ. An artist who truly understands her artistic media, Andrea holds a BS and an MS in Chemistry from Albright College and Texas A & M University, respectively. She currently lives in Hoboken, New Jersey.

Thanks for visiting and please feel free to leave feedback!

email andrea@ank-art.com