Kate Sammons is an emerging artist in the field of contemporary realism working at the Waichulis Studio under the influence of Anthony Waichulis. She lives in PA and draws portraits and still lifes in charcoal. Classical artwork and the work of the old masters is a source of inspiration for her as well as much contemporary artwork. She works slowly and meticulously, and strives to capture the qualities of life presence in an honest and personal way in her work. Her subject matter has personal significance, often contains symbolic meaning and conveys sensitivity to beauty.
Below is a synopsis of three pieces included in Realism Invitational 2008 opening at the Atlanta Art Gallery on August 22, 2008, and running until October 5, 2008:
Dichotomy:
This drawing of two feet in opposition seems humorous to me and also reminds me of all the bare feet I have seen in classical art. I chose the blue drapery because of my love of the brilliant color in Renaissance drapery and the way artists used it to convey the action of a gesture.
This piece is an ARC Salon finalist. (www.artrenewal.org/articles/2007/Salon/winners8.asp)
This is a portrait of a girl I know who is a talented photographer. I wanted to draw her because her face reminds me of a Renaissance Madonna and because of her amazing life presence. This portrait was composed in her dining room with several of her personal framed family photos in front of her. Her Chihuahua became a part of the picture too as his bright intelligent personality made him irresistible.
This still life was composed of my mother’s grandmother’s heirloom china and some other dishes that were passed on to the family. My mother loves dishes and has treasured these pieces all of her life. The tassel and fabric on the table I picked up from a trip to India. I wanted to show these objects accompanied with fruit and bread. Not exactly an abundant offering but enough to enjoy. The little bird skull in front seemed fitting because it symbolized for me the qualities of spirituality, grace and restraint of appetite.
Speechless:
I wanted to convey the softness of the form of the mouth by surrounding it with quiet light and the silence of moths. The shape of the light reminds me of a bridal veil as well as a path out of darkness. By accentuating the absence of speech, I hoped to suggest the power in its potential.
This drawing is actually just an honest recording of me in the mirror working to create an idea and composition from my camera, but it seemed to suggest so much more. To me, this picture shows a bridge between the past, present and future. I enjoy Hermes smiling over my shoulder watching our collaboration as the camera looks back at us through the mirror and at the new image that we are creating. Being the messenger of the gods, perhaps he just thought it should be my lucky day.
