Autumn’s Approach: Art, Inspiration, and Life on the Delaware Coast

by | Misc

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I can’t speak for other artists, only for myself. Inspiration finds me in the everyday moments, often when I least expect it. Lately, I’ve been drawn to the beauty around me—farmland, water, beaches, and the everyday rhythm of life in Sussex County, Delaware.

Take my next abstract collection, for example. It’s inspired by a lone tractor sitting quietly in a field through the seasons. This image stirs something deep within me, reminding me of my Paw-Paw, who was a sugar cane farmer. As a child, I used to ride with him on his tractor, sitting high above the ground, filled with excitement. The hum of the engine, the feel of the wind, and the thrill of sharing those rides with him—those moments left a lasting impression on me.

When I find myself emotionally drawn to a subject, like that tractor, my thoughts shift to how I might paint it. I start asking myself questions: What emotions am I feeling? How do I want to express them? What colors belong on the canvas to convey that feeling? Then comes the choice of medium. Should I use oil paint to capture the richness and depth? Or maybe pen and ink, where the details emerge in fine lines and points.

I also wonder, Would a realistic depiction of the scene convey the story best, or would an abstract piece speak louder? Abstracts, in their openness, can sometimes say more, leaving room for interpretation and connection.

When you think about artistic inspiration, what comes to mind for you? Do you feel it in memories, in the places you love, or in the everyday moments that often go unnoticed?

Feel free to explore more of my work here on the website or follow along on Instagram to see what I’m working on next!

2023 has been an incredible year for me, both personally and professionally. My husband retired, and we made the exciting move to the beautiful coast of Delaware. While he’s enjoying his days fishing, I’m finding endless inspiration in our new surroundings.

Sussex County, Delaware, is a treasure trove of scenic beauty, with its charming barns, lush trees, vintage tractors, historic homes, and stunning botanical gardens. The natural beauty around me has become a powerful source of inspiration for my art. I’m particularly drawn to herons and birds, so you can expect to see these graceful creatures featured in my future work.

It took us a full year to settle in and adjust to our new environment, and now that we’ve found our rhythm, I’m back in the studio with renewed energy and creativity. As fall approaches, my paintings will begin to reflect the rich colors and cozy vibes of the season, along with the festive spirit of the holidays.

As we embrace this slower, more reflective time of year, I’m looking forward to sharing my latest work with you. See you around the art galleries!

—Katherine

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