The Art of Chelsea Bentley James

Artist Statement

"Painting is a study of our existence, spirit, and environment, derived from experiences in life. I choose objects that evoke childhood memories, create situations of atmospheric mystery, and bring visual interest through interaction. I’m intrigued by subtle shifts in value and color; yet seek a personal interpretation of the objects rather than a replication. Personality is revealed through the process of painting. Abstract remnants from my process remain visible in the final product. The hand must obey the spirit. "

March 28, 2007

A good painting quote

You have to know how to use the accident, how to recognize it, how to control it. -Helen Frankenthaler

February 22, 2007

I just went to NYC in the anticipation to see the "Americans in Paris" exhibition with this painting, The daughters of Edward Boit by John Singer Sargent. I thought that the exhibition was taken down and this piece sent back to its home in Boston, but to my surprise it was still there. This is THE most magnificent painting ever done. It is even more remarkable in person.

December 2, 2006

Omniture Painting

This was during the process of painting this landscape. I've never painted anything this large, so it was intimidating at first. However, I soon began to embrace the size and learned different techniques of mark making along the way. Omniture commissioned me to paint a large Landscape to fit a hip, but tranquil setting. They also wanted the painting to compliment their company colors; chartreuse green and grey.

"Split"

The inspiration from "Split" comes from driving through Split, Croatia and viewing the beautiful architectural designs of the landscape.

Abstract Landscapes

I became inspired to paint these landscapes when I was living in Arizona for a short while. The colors and the textures of the desert made me yearn to paint. These paintings are a really nice break after painting all those still lifes. I think it helps me keep a balance.

"Desert Bushels"