Camellia; Yearning

RENÉE SWITKES

Camellia; Yearning, 2022
Acrylic on Canvas
16 x 16 x 1.5 in

ABOUT THE WORK

"Many of us yearn to be accepted for who we authentically are and, at times, reveal our vulnerability hoping we will be well received. Like those of us who are shy and soft, this camellia slowly opens its petals, revealing its vulnerability to the harsh world. When the flower’s beauty is fully shown, its sweet smell permeates the air, leaving a lasting impression as it ages. Those who share their authentic selves live with a sense of freedom and leave us a legacy to follow. Inspiration for this painting came from Filoli Gardens in Woodside, California. I was drawn to the intense light and the flower’s contrasting shadows."—Renée Switkes

This work was included in the "Refusés of the Bay" group exhibition at Voss Gallery (September 29 - October 28, 2023).

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Renée Switkes is a Californian native primarily living in Silicon Valley, where many gardens inspire her work. She is attracted to the contrast of light and shadow. She enjoys mixing colors from a limited pallet to show the opaque surface and the transparency the light provides. Spending time painting flowers helps her slow down and enjoy nature's simple beauty and fills her desire for others to feel joy and connect on a deeper level when they view her artwork.

After graduating from San Jose State University, she began teaching the love of art to children of all ages, inspiring students to feel comfortable and proud of their creations. She has stayed creative while teaching and raising her family but did not begin exhibiting her paintings until 2021. In two years, her paintings have been exhibited at the Pacific Art League in Palo Alto, Ark Art Gallery in San Jose, the Phantom Gallery in Milpitas, and in San Francisco at The Drawing Room, SOMa Arts, SFWA Gallery, 4Chickens Gallery, and FOG. In addition, she received two platinum awards from J. Mane Gallery and two bronze awards from the Camelback Gallery. Recently her artwork has been accepted into the state-wide competition and salon by the Triton Museum in Santa Clara. Paintings by Renée Switkes are in private collections internationally: France, Switzerland, England, Qatar, UAE, and India, and in the USA: Hawaii, Arizona, California, Massachusetts, South Carolina, and Georgia.

HANGING & CARE

Artwork is ready to hang on the wall; hanging wire is secured on the back (nail and hook needed). Dust raw canvas with a clean, soft brush and HEPA-filtered vacuum to clean. Using a new, clean brush prevents transfer of grime from previous dustings.

PURCHASE INFO

Gallery pick up, local delivery & international shipping available! Questions? Contact us