Annie Stromquist

My mixed media works on paper explore the human condition through a poetic lens. I usually work with abstracted but recognizable imagery. The compositions I create often appear to be quite minimal, with empty space used as an active presence. The scale of my work, which ranges from small to mid-sized, reflects my desire to create art works whose evocative power unfolds within an intimate viewing context.

In the studio, I assemble drawing tools, inks, and various hand carved or found printing blocks, ready for use beside a blank sheet of paper. Beginning with a general plan and composition in mind, I build the image with these tools. Often, I employ working methods that react unpredictably, such as the interaction of ink with wet paper. Once I am satisfied with a basic composition, I develop it with paint, watercolor, pencil, printmaking methods and wax.

Many artists have influenced my work and and me as an artist. Hon’ami Koetsu, a 17th century Japanese artist, used innovative printing techniques which I have studied and introduced into my own working vocabulary. Paul Klee, whose work came to prominence in Europe in the early 1920’s, is an influence because of his quirky compositions and his “transfer drawing” methods, which I have incorporated as well. I am pulled to the mesmerizing work of Hannelore Baron, who used cloth, ink and hand carved printing blocks to create small, emotionally charged collages. Agnes Martin, a minimalist, said that making art gave her joy and a sense of well-being. I feel the same way about art.