ARTIST'S STATEMENT

I strive to translate onto canvas the essence and wildness of this beautiful planet. I am a contemporary impressionistic oil painter using generous paint and vivid brushwork in a style called “first coup” (from the French, “au premier coup”). This is a one-layer painting technique where the painting (or each section of a large painting) is completed in one sitting while the paint is still wet – in other words, after the first pass. For me, this is the best way to impart the aliveness and emotional intensity of Nature.

BIOGRAPHY

I have been painting for 25 years. In a life-changing event, with no warning whatsoever, painting dropped into my life while I was in the flow of raising four fantastic kids. Though my technique has improved with use, this gift arrived as an already-developed skill that continues to astonish.

I grew up extremely close to Nature and have been a tree hugger since my earliest memories, climbing them barefooted at every opportunity. Trees are incredibly special to me and I give them credit for keeping me healthy and connected. To give back, I first became a hydrogeologist. I was going to save the planet. This proved rotten with politics, so I retooled in the human potential movement, eventually writing a critically-acclaimed syndicated advice column, Straight Talk Advice, with contributions from youth panelists around the nation [2004-2016] [including the Santa Rosa Press Democrat]. It was important work, but I wasn’t happy. In 2017, I thought why not take this gift of painting – which I love most of all -- and contribute by sharing the beauty of Earth?

Best decision EVER. Painting every day is like being in love and my paintings are essentially love letters to this amazing planet.

The vivid contemporary impressionistic landscape paintings of my current period are a return to my painting roots which were dominated by this style. The generous paint, vivid brushstrokes and loose compositional style reflects the heart opening I feel out-of-doors. While hiking and backpacking, I drink in the scenery, take multiple reference photos, and often walk barefooted and sleep on the earth to further soak in the energy. Returning to the studio, I strive to translate onto canvas the peace, aliveness, and utter beauty I experienced.

My paintings are in private collections throughout the United States and abroad. From my website, you can purchase originals as well as artist-quality giclee prints on canvas that arrive ready to hang.

Please contact me for sales, commissions, and showings.
—Lauren Forcella

email: lauren@laurenforcella.com
website: https://laurenforcella.com/
(707) 622-6821