Nancy Patka – Painter

I spent my youth with crayons and watercolor boxes and reams of creamy Manila drawing paper. I was fortunate enough to spend my Saturday mornings at the St. Paul Institute of Art. The Institute was located in an old mansion where the entire third floor was roofed by a massive skylight. It was there that the smell of turpentine and the sight of sculpture stands and easels captured my heart. I went on to major in art education and received my Bachelors and Masters degrees from the University of Minnesota. I have been a public school art teacher in both Minnesota and California.

About ten years ago, I connected with a group of plein aire watercolor artists. This group has been a source of inspiration and comradery and has also led to my association with Ægis Gallery.

My paintings are based on things that I have seen or felt. I am drawn to subjects that have a history.

Although I haven’t concentrated on figure drawing, man’s presence is felt in nearly every one of my paintings. Sometimes my subjects are old, out–of–style or simply run down. During the course of a day there are countless sources of inspiration. It could be the way the light moves across a scene, the gesture of a person or the character of a great old building.

I try to stick to subjects I’ve observed first hand; these paintings just end up having more meaning for me. I love to play with color and portray my subjects in an Impressionistic manner.

I hope in some way that the thrill, not the struggle, of my effort comes through to you.

More work from the artist:

“ Artist's Still-life ” (oil)

“ The Antiquarian Antique Shop/ Los Gatos ” (oil)

"Endless Artichokes" (pastel)

"Organic Garden South of Carmel" (pastel)

"...And Three's a Crowd" (oil)

"The Bank/ Saratoga Watering Hole" (oil)

"Old Orchard on Saratoga A�venue" (pastel)

Nancy Patka
email: npatka@hotmail.com