Graduating with my degree in graphic art and design,
I have thoroughly enjoyed creating artistic works in acrylics, watercolor, sculpting and silk painting. Ultimately, my artwork is influenced by timeless subjects in nature that continuously inspire me
to create that special place in my imagination
from which to paint.
Having lived in New Jersey, Florida, Washington and Hawaii much of my work reflects an appreciation of wildlife, nature, the beach, the ocean and its marine life. I have a deep respect for the local environments where I've lived, dived and traveled. Much of my work is influenced by local wildlife often set against the dramatic land and seascapes ranging from the Florida everglades and coastlines to the sun kissed Hawaiian beaches, from the Jersey shore to the mountains of the Pacific Northwest.
Recently, I've been drawn to the captivating beauty of African wildlife as evidenced by the tigers, lions, jaguars, gorillas, elephants, giraffes, wolves and zebras roaming my gallery page. Always fascinated by exotic florals, fantasy scapes, sealife and landscapes, I'm continually inspired to paint and grow my body of work!
While teaching scuba diving classes in Florida and Hawaii, I learned the traditional Japanese art of silk painting using French inks and dyes hand drawn and painted on raw Habutai and crepe silks which is then steamed to set the colors permanently. Although many of these silk pieces are framed, generally speaking my silk work features the soft flowing tapestries fashioned after the Japanese and Chinese hanging scrolls of the third and fourth centuries.
My work has been exhibited in galleries and shops in Lahaina Maui, HI, Fort Lauderdale, FL, Gig Harbor, WA, New York and Tampa, FL. Wanting to give back to my community, many of my animal paintings are currently for sale at Zoo Tampa with the majority of the proceeds going directly to the zoo towards their animal care and conservation efforts.
Currently I'm enjoying life with my husband, Lee in Florida. Operating my business under the Soft Touch Creations label, please feel free to contact me at my studio or email me directly with a question at elaine@softtouchcreation.com. I love new challenges and special projects and welcome your support!
