Steph Mason

Artist Statement: With my oil paintings, I like to explore a specific colour combined with an animal muse to convey an emotion or feeling. In associating an emotion with an animal the viewer can examine what that feeling means to them on a more personal level. It is a safe space to project that emotion (which can sometimes be uncomfortable) onto something that is beautiful and captivating. My painting “Dusk” represents quiet confidence; the power in silence. The painting “Night Hunt” is about taking action without second thought. While my images are created in a realistic way, there is a dream-like quality to the final result. I try to be mindful of ways to build up textures like fur in a fluid way that showcases the unique properties of paint. I have always loved looking at other’s paintings and imagined their brushstrokes, how the artist’s hand shaped the final image. I enjoy playing with different colour combinations and different animal subjects, always trying to challenge myself. The constant learning and growing is what drives me forward.