Aquitaine | 24X36 | Acrylic and Resin on Canvas | 2008
Artist Statement
Tracy Lee Griffith's work sets the tone of her travels, growing up in upstate New York and a childhood spent in St. John, Virgin Islands. Much like the vast colors of the sea Tracy's work comes from a place where she finds solace. The rich colors and textural mark rush through the canvas to allow the viewer access to how she sees the world. Each one of her paintings creates a visceral experience and a way to see through the darkness and appreciate the beauty all around us. The depth of her work comes from a personal place of experience and a love for natural beauty, intent upon exploring natural scenes and embracing color. Tracy's work frees the unconscious energies and pursues a lyrical and often ecstatic rupture of identity.
Biography
Tracy Lee Griffith began her serious artistic exploration when her late uncle James Greene left her his collection of brushes, acrylics and the echo of his encouragement for her to be a painter. Through the grieving process, Tracy developed her sweeping landscapes, which communicate her life experience through the use of bold colors and layers of poly resin. Tracy's paintings are influenced by her beloved uncle and childhood homes, where she was surrounded by vibrant nature.
Tracy grew up on a farm in New York, as well as, St. John, in the U.S. Virgin Islands. These places, as well as her various professions, have informed her dynamic life.
"I am absorbed in every sense by colors," explains Tracy. "They deliver intense energy and emotion that I feel I am a part of."
She specializes in abstract landscape, emphasizing color and mark. Her uncle introduced her to the works of Rothko, Frankenthaler and Jenkins, which have impacted her artistic style.
From her experience as a professionally trained sushi chef, Tracy uses her knowledge of presentation and color to inform her art practice with mindfully placed color choices, acknowledging how her viewers devour the world with their eyes.
Tracy has created a quest to explore the limits of painting by energizing the senses and pushing the confines of the canvas's surface.
Tracy currently resides in Napa Valley, California.
Artwork
