121 N. Churton St. Hillsborough, NC 27278

ARTIST STATEMENT

I knew when I was in kindergarten that I wanted to be a full-time artist, but my life took the scenic route to achieve this desire. Over the years I have explored a variety of media, including watercolor, acrylics, oils, block printing, collage, weaving, needlework, mosaics, and jewelry making. My interests now focus on acrylic and oil painting in both representational and metaphorical styles.

In my work I explore a variety of themes: the beauty of everyday (and sometimes run-down) objects; spirituality; myths, metaphors and symbols; the natural world; and sense of place. I use numerous references to mythology, symbolism, and folklore of many different cultures and spiritual traditions. Paintings can be whimsical, serene, or serious. My paintings have included old cars and trucks, beat-up tricycles, local architectural features and natural areas, huge stylized fish, images of the Tree of Life, cranes, swallows, and cherry trees.

I like to think of ways to combine all my artistic passions and explore the creative process, which sometimes results in paintings with block prints and needlework, paintings with imbedded doors and found objects, and a series of “spirit houses” which are 3-D mixed media pieces. When creating a painting, I also am interested in playing with repetition of pattern, texture, layers, and depth of field. An emerging interest is creating artwork that encourages viewer interaction, such as the “Wish Box” which asks viewers to offer notes about their hopes and dreams.

I have been creating art in the Durham area for over twelve years. I am married with two children and an assortment of pets. Before becoming a full-time artist, I worked for many years on environmental conservation issues in the Southeast US with The Nature Conservancy.

Kimberly Wheaton

Learning to Float

Quiet Mill Pond