ARTIST PROFILE
Capturing the energy and movement of a subject is intriguing. Through movement, expressive and exaggerated colours, I challenge the notion of solely capturing a single specific moment in which the subject is found. In reality, a subject is informed by the past, the reflection of beauty from the present and the anticipated future. I perceive my subjects, whether they are people, places or objects, to be in a constant state of change – and ultimately have an energy. I am drawn to illustrating the dynamic nature of my subjects.
Through this process, my artwork evokes the interpretation of subjects as opposed to a realistic representation. Strong contrasts between light and dark and the exaggeration of colour enable my paintings to evoke a feeling, mood or connection with its viewers. Contrast between energetic and smooth brushwork are used to express movement. I aim for viewers to perceive my paintings to be dynamic and energetic. Ultimately, my paintings reveal the core energy of the subject through colour and abstraction.
ABOUT SAMANTHA
Samantha Straub is visual artist from Calgary, Alberta and a recent graduate from the University of Alberta. She specializes in acrylic and paintings that evoke movement through the use of bright colours in the interpretation of subjects. In combination with inspiration drawn from her encounters with nature, Samantha's style is inspired by her desire to illustrate movement and the abstraction of organic shapes.
Much of her work is informed by experiences and photographs from extensive travels, including encounters with a variety of people, perspectives and natural beauty.
