Remixed Collage No. 9 Print

I create colorful, intuitive abstract art that channels emotions and the imprints of my dreams. Working with my hands gives me a profound sense of purpose, and I express myself through layered artwork using acrylic, gouache, ink, collage, yarn, and fabric. It took me a while to embrace my identity as an abstract artist and creating art driven by my emotions and the vivid, lucid dreams I experience nightly. I once believed, as is often taught in art school, that mastering representational art was a prerequisite for creating abstract art. Early in my career, I focused on representational objects but struggled to find joy in this style. The frustration of not perfectly capturing facial features or hands often led me to abstract my work out of exasperation, which brought immediate relief. After nearly a decade away from art due to a demanding managerial role, I felt a void in my life and returned to my creative practice. Now, I am dedicated to the styles, materials, and techniques that bring me joy. My favorite materials include acrylic paint, gouache, ink, oil pastel, paper collage, and yarn. I use these to create layered, intuitive artworks with abstract painting, ink techniques, collage, and crochet locker hook and latch hook techniques. I work intuitively, without a preconceived plan for each piece. Using various media, I build layers, textures, and patterns, often sanding parts of the painting between layers to create rich textures and depth. I know a piece is complete when I achieve the right balance of color, pattern, and texture. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art from California Lutheran University and studied in a Post-Baccalaureate program at the Oregon College of Art & Craft, focusing on painting, drawing, weaving, dyeing, manipulating fabrics, and textile design. I currently live and work in Portland, Oregon. Instagram: .garrison.studio Pinterest: bethanygarrisonstudio