Connie Ryan

I am drawn to paint the beauty in the natural world as well as the beauty in what is old, neglected and discarded. I usually start a painting with an image or a feeling, but if the painting goes in another direction, I follow it, giving the painting permission to be itself. I paint by making forms and then dissolving them, searching for structure that allows breathing space.

I spent much of my life among school children and particularly enjoyed being on the playground during recess. The space would come alive with the movement, energy and vitality of children playing, forming into groups and then dispersing. My recent work is inspired by these memories. The canvas has become my playground and I am playing with shape, color, and line.

I find making art healing, playful, and challenging. When I have the opportunity to spend time in my studio I am more open to the outside world. I can appreciate the beauty and cope better with the craziness. And if what I make speaks to other people and they find it healing, playful, or challenging, all the better.