Patricia Hitchens

Artist’s Statement
Henri Matisse said:  “All art worthy of its name is spiritual.”

I have a passion for the elegant serenity of nature.  Whoever looks deeply into my art can feel my spirit.  As in poetry, my art expresses itself. Like gossamer wings of a dragonfly, translucent silk dyes accentuate my ethereal renderings.

 I have been told that I have an Asian soul, and my style reflects that quality.  I work with watercolor as well as silk dyes.  Both methods begin as a blank white sheet.  My paintings are linked with nature and animals.  The blending of silk, ink and paint creates luscious results, which are difficult to reproduce with other mediums. 

 I sometimes leave negative space.  This is not leftover space, but rather intended space.  It allows you, the onlooker, to project your imagination into the painting.  

General Background
 While Pat has been an artist most of her life, it was her avocation as she devoted 32 years to education administration.  As a business-world retiree, she now spends full-time creating the images she loves.  She currently serves on the board of the Parklane Gallery in Kirkland, where here paintings are on display. 

Over the years, Pat has participated in numerous art venues, including wildlife art, traditional watercolor, silk painting, Chinese art, and calligraphy.  She has had the opportunity to study under many noteworthy artists, among them:  Robert Bateman, Morton Solberg, Tony Angell, Bart Rulon, Adele Earnshaw, Lee Kromschroeder, Chang-Khee Chee, Lian Zhen, Karen Sistek, Sandra Kay Johnson, Susan Moyer and Kay Barnes. 

Professional Organizations
Chinese Arts Society Northwest
Eastside Association of Fine Artists
Northwest Watercolor Society
Silk Painters International
Board Member – Parklane Gallery