The Way I've Seen it

Artist Sarah Shaw has an abiding interest in painting still lifes. And she is in great company: artists since antiquity have dabbled in the genre, bringing to life inanimate objects ranging from organic items to ceramicware and textiles. The Way I’ve Seen It, on view this month in Hank & Dolly’s Gallery, showcases snapshots of Shaw’s life viewed through her impressionistic lens. The artist uses oil paint on linen to realize object studies of flora and fauna, dreamy landscapes, and outdoor celebrations in each work.  

Sarah Shaw, Southwestern Vibe, oil on linen panel

Shaw finds still lifes provide her with definition and control over shapes and values. She states, “the objects I’ve put on a tabletop are not as consequential as the total abstract (shape and value) effect of the painting.” Still lifes are often neutral, malleable, and offer room for experimentation. Shaw’s brushstrokes give additional meaning to these everyday objects. A sense of the aggregation of form, texture, light, and shadow inherent in still lifes arises in her work Southwestern Vibe. 

She often works quickly, finishing a small painting in a portion of a day. The depth of her artistic ability is especially inspiring considering she waited to explore mediums outside of drawing until the age of 40. It was then that she was mentored in watercolor, gauche, and acrylic painting for eight years under the tutelage of Indianapolis artist Peggy McLahlan. As of late, she cites the work of well-known representational painter C.W. Mundy as an invaluable reference and influence within her work. She additionally credits her reverence for God as an ever-present inspiration.

Sarah Shaw, Ginger Cat, oil on linen panel

A turning point in her life came in 2012 when impressionist-influenced representational paintings at the AIS Master’s Symposium struck a deep chord within the artist. This revelation is undoubtedly reflected in her work. Her impressionistic technical skills are beautifully represented in Ginger Cat, an aptly titled work that features the visage of a loosely-rendered orange-and-white tabby. In alternating short and long strokes of white, gray, brown, orange, and even pink, the paint dances energetically across the canvas to capture the feline’s quiet moment of contemplation.

Several botanical pieces can also be found scattered throughout the show, speaking to Shaw’s interest in the natural world. Whether it’s a flower, shrub, mountain, field, or cat, Shaw has captured the essence of the form in her expressive way. 

The Way I’ve Seen It will be on view in Hank & Dolly’s Gallery during the month of January. All works are available for purchase and can be viewed online through our online gallery and in-person during regular gallery hours from 9 AM - 5 PM, Monday through Friday.