In her Nature Series, painting is a form of meditation for Gwyn Kohr, a process of accessing the artist’s subconscious. Working with layers of rich oil paints, she creates alluring surfaces with an understated palette, which create a dynamic tension between literal and abstract representation. The paintings are evocative of landscape, of water, and of the vegetation surrounding us. Within the fluid space of each piece she strives for balance and integration between form and non-form, representation and abstraction. Understanding the interplay between form and color is one aspect of Gwyn’s visual vocabulary. Her paintings consist of layer after layer of paint, which is often scratched through and then built up again, producing a delicate balance between a controlled or chaotic emotional content. The paintings have lush surfaces that evoke a deep emotional response, allowing each piece to be equally compelling whether viewed from six inches or sixteen feet away. Each time you look at the work you see something different, something new. Therefore, there is always an element of mystery, along with a sense of tranquility and familiarity, which engages the viewer. Gwyn Kohr grew up in Southern California and holds a Bachelor’s degree in both fine art and science from the California State University. In addition to creating bold, unique artwork, she has also taught for many years in various art programs in California. Gwyn has exhibited in California and Virginia since the early 1990’s, and currently resides in Charlottesville, Virginia.