Many spend a lifetime searching for the thing that sets their soul on fire. For Sara Pittman, the answer has always been clear: An open studio, a brush, and a blank canvas. The artist has envel- oped herself in the world of non-representational painting for seven years, finding its freedom as a kind of personal meditation.
“I often begin by laying my canvases flat on the ground and walk around them, which can feel ceremonial,” Pittman says. “I pour acrylic paints and inks and let the colors collide. I scribble and paint feverishly, and I get lost in the movement of pouring.”
Pittman adds that this method typically brings clarity on the direc- tion of the piece. From there, her journey centers around technique as she maps out shapes, marks, and palettes with oil paint.
“From a stark canvas to a chaotic mess of color, I eventually find my way to resolution and suddenly am reminded of the magic of painting,” Pittman says. “Sometimes it’s a failure, but mostly I feel giddy about what has poured out of me.”
No matter what, the creative follows one foundational motto: “Paint now and figure the rest out later.” To Pittman, the process is about listening to her intuition, paying attention to what excites her, and remaining open to the unknown.
“This form of expressionism has brought so much excitement into my life because I never know how a piece will end up,” Pittman says. “Every day feels new.”
Anne Neilson Fine Art (ANFA), where Pittman’s work is on display, has established a strong partnership with the artist. Gallery Director Logan Sutton recalls that she was in the midst of a busy gallery move when she connected with Pittman—and was so moved by her work that she knew she had to reach out.
“She traveled to Charlotte and seeing the work in person was akin to stepping into a Rothko Room,” Sutton says. “You’re instantly moved. You feel an energy throughout your body, mind, and soul. The radiance of her work translates directly from who she is as a human being as well. Now I can’t and don’t want to imagine ANFA without having her work on display.”
In awe of the way Pittman’s paintings draw in viewers, Sutton says it’s not uncommon to be left with a parting sense of peace, clarity, and freedom.
“To collect one of Sara Pittman’s paintings would mean more than just a piece to place on the wall,” Sutton says. “It is a true gift, not only because of the emotional connection, but also because of Sara’s profound intentions when creating each painting. Collecting her work is curating your personal story and recognizing your beauty and power within.”
Perhaps the most beautiful element of the artist’s creative process? The ability to create distinct meaning behind each piece, even if it means stepping into the unknown.
“Paint what excites you, even if
it’s far removed from what you have created in the past,” Pittman says. “Our voice always finds its way from our hearts to our hands, and always to the canvas. Even as you evolve, bits and pieces of your style weave themselves through the new work. Don’t be afraid. Just paint.”
As she moves into the future, the artist says she is excited to continue developing her body of work, as well as participate in a Denver group show at Walker Fine Art later this year. The show will feature brand new pieces from Pittman and five other artists who are all working in different mediums.
“There is truly nothing more enthralling than seeing my work hanging on a beautiful gallery wall amongst those I’m most inspired by,” Pittman says. “That is my biggest reward of all.”
