Profile Photo

Stephanie Thwaites

  • 500 Palm Dr, Novato, CA 94949, USA
  • 203

About The Artist

Artist Statement

I find inspiration in nature ƒ- the freedom of its organic shapes, the endless variation of colors, the ever-changing light. But I am also drawn to architectural and geometric forms ƒ- their order, structure, and alignment. My work is often about seeking balance and harmony between these two influences.

From representational to abstract, I strive to create dynamic space that is intricate and layered, but also grounded. I hope the viewer to look, and then look again more closely, and maybe even touch. But I do not want to overwhelm. I still want the painting to offer a resting place. For me, it is important to find moments of stillness within a landscape of complexity and activity.

I paint with oil and cold wax (a medium made of natural beeswax, resin, and solvent) because they complement my love of rich texture while also imparting a lovely translucent quality and matte finish. This encourages experimental approaches and allows for expressive mark-making and the ability to carve into paint layers. I almost never use brushes in my work, instead favoring putty knives, squeegees, brayers, and other found tools.

Biography

I am a contemporary artist, working primarily in oil and wax. I work intuitively and responsively rather than with a fixed vision of the finished piece. My creative process is fueled by curiosity and discovery, as I enjoy exploring different techniques and materials, using the medium to uncover something unseen or unexpected. My paintings are often created over time, adding and removing layers until the piece feels complete. I am a graduate of the Yale University Fine Arts program, studying painting, graphic design, and photography. Here I developed a strong understanding of composition and an eye for color and harmony. After college, I continued her design studies with graduate courses in Switzerland. After a 20-year career in Connecticut as a graphic designer, creative director, and brand manager, I moved to Vermont in 2009 and returned to my fine arts background full time. In this thriving artistic community, I showed and sold my work with a solo show as well through many group shows and local venues. In 2014, my husband and I relocated to Marin County. Inspired by learning new techniques and working with fellow artists, I continue to study multiple mediums and disciplines through workshops and classes offered in the Bay Area. I have shown my work in many national and local juried shows and galleries and my paintings are included in collections around the country and internationally.

Art Medium(s)

Oil Paint, Acrylic Paint, Mixed Media

Studio Information

Building Name

Marin MOCA

Studio Or Unit Number

203

Studio Address
Special Location Or Visiting Instructions

Studio 203 is on the second floor of the main museum building.

COVID Precautions

Contact Information

Artist Full Name
Contact Email Address
Phone

(203) 209-8135

Artist Website

Exhibitions & Press

Awards

Best in Show, “Blessed Unrest” 2022 national juried show, Gallery Route One, Pt. Reyes, CA; Juror Jack Fischer

1st Place, 2021 Trinity Art Show, Sparrow Gallery, Sacramento, CA

Education

Description

BA, Yale College, Fine Arts major

Video

Stephanie Thwaites: Artist Sketches

Studio & Activity Photos

Keep in touch

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