Hélène Farrar

Landscape Statement:

“My landscape works are poetic interpretations of quiet and observed moments, often of seasonal transitions, in both abstract and formal representations. Both of these sensibilities develop from direct observations of being in the landscape. In my abstract works I allow the paint to lead me allowing for experimental and playful surfaces. And other times, I develop the work to create believable dimensionality. The landscape is often a metaphor for a personal narrative such as this, “My heart has been heavy these days, maybe yours too. In light of the first snow that falls on Maine on an early morning – – – to my daughter’s exclamations it forced a real, present moment. Raising my eyes, looking out at my side yard, the apple trees with freshly covered white, and feeling the peacefulness, the quiet, the stillness. Drawing, journaling, and meditation are all equally important components of this painting process. “

Flower Statement:

“Yes, because of the love of flowers and blooms I made these. But more, rather as a need for beauty in this world, in this moment because it seems unfair. Beauty is a call to take care of things we love, like each other and the planet and to call upon nature as our highest healing power. And though beauty might seem as an escapist or even indulgent it can also provide a gentler, safer, and expedited agent to the pressured and exhaustive truths we seek to suppress. These blooms and bounties of color and form are to be enjoyed and food for strength in an increasingly pluralized humanity.”