Artist Statement:

“I started painting tree portraits 15-years ago inspired by a family of giant sycamores that lined the bridle paths where I have worked. The trees stood so stately stopping me in my tracks to take in their bare winter branches against the crisp blue sky. It had me spellbound.

Painting with oil preserves and a smooth consistency of depth and color, the medium captures the beauty of the trees perfectly. My paintings start as a drawing over graphite. I will brush on a thin underpainting with warm tones followed by layers of saturated color.”

See more of Rachel’s work at the Wedge Studios in the River Arts District in Asheville or online at RachelClegg.com