Annie Gudis

I paint things I love to see and the way they make me feel. Sometimes the paintings are stories, metaphors or just fantasies. I’m intrigued by the relationship between earth and sky. I see stunning clouds from my studio window all year long. They are in constant motion and I’m fascinated by this abstract ballet.
My paintings are layered oils on canvas. I begin with a white surface on which I apply a multi-colored ground. Next I mix paint: my favorite task. Working with exquisite paint is like squeezing jewels from tubes. I establish a light source and an horizon, flavoring the compositions with yellows, pinks and violets appropriate to a time of day, season and weather. Then I follow the lead of what I have created….
Inspiration is sparked by gazing at the heavens over salt ponds and seagrass and from laughing gulls, egrets and eagles that I meet at the beach - especially off season. Passion to paint is ignited by cityscapes, farms, the desert and practically everywhere I travel. Often I’m moved to paint by songs or musical instruments.
When I was a child my father would buy me big red helium balloons at the near by National Zoo and I fell in love with them. To this day they still raise my spirits and lift my heart.
The work of Michelangelo has always informed mine and I have twice traveled to Italy where I was fortunate to see the Sistine Chapel both before and after cleaning restoration. I am also moved by the paintings of Vermeer, Edward Hopper, and my fellow artists.
I’m always grateful for the opportunity to share my work.